Some brands are so iconic that they transcend advertising and become part of culture. Others go even further, embracing the power of collaboration to reach new audiences, create viral moments, and spark lasting buzz.
In today’s scroll-happy world, we’re constantly bombarded with ads. To break through the noise, brands need more than just great products, they need unforgettable campaigns. Enter the power move: brand collaborations.
From nostalgic mash-ups to wild ideas that somehow just work, here are some iconic brand partnerships that prove two is better than one.
IKEA x Iconic Family Rooms on TV
Who hasn’t dreamed of living in Monica’s apartment or lounging in the Stranger Things living room? IKEA made those dreams (almost) come true by recreating beloved TV living rooms—The Simpsons, Stranger Things, and Friends—entirely with their furniture.
Each room was shoppable online, letting fans get the exact pieces to recreate the aesthetic at home. The campaign was a masterclass in nostalgia marketing, cross-generational appeal, and creative e-commerce.
Adidas x Arizona
What do sneakers and iced tea have in common? A bold vision and viral chaos.
In one of the most unexpected pairings, Adidas and Arizona Iced Tea launched 99-cent sneakers inspired by Arizona’s iconic can designs. The drop caused such a frenzy in NYC that police had to shut down the pop-up store.
The shoes? Almost impossible to find. The PR value? Priceless.
Taco Bell x Doritos
This one needs no introduction. In 2012, Taco Bell and Doritos released the Doritos Locos Taco, a crunchy shell made from Nacho Cheese Doritos. It was an instant hit and has remained a menu staple for over a decade.
It’s one of the best examples of co-branding done right: simple, flavorful, and iconic.
KFC x Hismile
Yes, you read that right: fried chicken-flavored toothpaste.
In 2025, Aussie oral care brand Hismile teamed up with KFC to release a toothpaste and matching toothbrush that smelled and tasted like KFC’s secret 11 herbs and spices. Launched on April 1, fans assumed it was a joke, but it was 100% real.
The bizarre but brilliant collab went viral across TikTok and Instagram, proving once again that weird sells.
KFC x Lifetime
KFC isn’t afraid to get weird; in fact, they lean into it.
In 2020, KFC and Lifetime dropped a steamy mini-movie titled A Recipe for Seduction, starring Mario Lopez as a young, hot Colonel Sanders. It was cheesy, dramatic, and everything a branded rom-com should be. The internet lost its mind (in the best way possible).
Squid Games x Everyone (Literally)
When Squid Game exploded on Netflix in 2021, brands scrambled to get a piece of the hype. By Season 2, collabs were everywhere, from McDonald’s Australia to Crocs, Johnnie Walker, and even K-beauty giant Olive Young with Squid Game skincare kits.
This was brand synergy at scale, proving the power of entertainment-led marketing.
Bonus: Pedro Pascal x Apple AirPods
Apple tapped into the internet’s heartthrob, Pedro Pascal, for a sleek, cinematic AirPods campaign. Stylish, dramatic, and filled with easter eggs, the campaign blended celebrity power with Apple’s minimalist cool.
Because let’s be honest… Pedro Pascal makes everything better.
Why Brand Collaborations Work
From co-branded products to viral stunts, these campaigns show that the right partnership can skyrocket brand relevance. They combine audiences, elevate storytelling, and spark conversations that stick.
In a world of scrolls and swipes, the goal is simple: be unforgettable.
Want to create a buzz-worthy collaboration for your brand? Let’s brainstorm.
