If anyone thinks that the habit of banking on controversy to promote the products (or services)is infallible, you should also remember that in one unexpected day, a controversy can turn the things for the worst. Your brand reputation can be marred, especially if you represent a service where commitment and decency rated high among the clientele.
Let us come to the recent example of Spirit airlines. A promotional ad by them had some controversy, as it allegedly made light of the Gulf Coast oil spill. Following the controversy, the ad has been pulled suddenly from Spirit’s site and the airline
responded to criticism with a semi-apologetic press release.
The ad says- “Check Out the Oil on Our Beaches.” The ad also featured bottles of sunscreen printed in yellow and green, with the name “Best Protection.”
The ad made many see red, with its discreet meaning.
Well, we can not say that the brand image of Spirit airlines got destroyed by this controversy. But at least it got a bolt. At least a needed whip.
Via: RBR
