Birthday boy Bibendum joins advertising ‘Walk of Fame’

Bibendum the Michelin Man celebrated his 113th birthday yesterday by being inducted into Advertising Week's ‘Walk of Fame’ as “Icon of the Year”. A ceremony acknowledging the rotund white one’s special day was held in New York as part of the annual event’s activities; Michelin’s famed mascot was chosen for the honour following an online voting contest.

“The Michelin Man is much more than an advertising icon,” stated Don Byrd, vice president of marketing at Michelin North America. “He has become a global symbol of safety because of his longevity, his visibility among different audiences and the values he represents.”

The Madison Avenue Advertising Walk of Fame recognises America’s most beloved advertising icons and slogans. The Michelin Man will join such other iconic symbols as Columbian coffee icon Juan Valdez and Geico’s gecko.