Michael Pollak (3)

While it likely would have helped if I'd read Michael Pollak's first book,I did find this sequel "the refill" to be interesting. It took you on a journey of his experiences in employment in marketing while sharing knowledge of processes in the profession. Light humor, whimsical illustrations and an easy read.

Light, anecdotal marketing tales – fine for the right reader

This sequel to PowerPoint and Coffee offers more chapters on the author’s long career in UK food and drink marketing. Topics include product launches, working with agencies and printers, sales promotions, the Red Rock Cider ads, media planning, PR, sponsorship, category management, and reflections on brands old and new (plus what happened to many of them). Simple cartoons by Nycki Owen accompany the text, and there’s a show more glossary of jargon plus thoughts on future trends.

Pollak’s style is chatty and understated, full of personal stories and gentle observations about how marketing (and corporate life) has changed. It’s most engaging for those familiar with the brands or the industry, providing a nostalgic, insider view of 1980s–2010s FMCG.

The writing is straightforward and the humor mild, while the cartoons are basic illustrations rather than clever or artistic standouts. It lacks the depth, wit, or visual interest that might broaden its appeal. Pleasant and harmless, but not particularly funny, insightful, or memorable for a general audience. A solid niche addition to business memoir collections, best borrowed or read quickly. show less