This print advertisement campaign launched by Dr. Martens has recently landed in intense controversy as it has been alleged that the campaign has caused offense by showing four dead rock icons wearing its boots in heaven. It has been contended that published images featuring Kurt Cobain of Nirvana, The Clash’s Joe Strummer, Sid Vicious of the Sex Pistols and the Ramones’ Joey Ramone had not been approved by the British company.
Following the controversy the company in question has decided to terminate its association with the advertisement agency Saatchi & Saatchi that had created this campaign. However, Saatchi & Saatchi has claimed that Dr. Martens approved to run once in the UK’s Fact Magazine caused a bit of controversy and complaint.
In the meanwhile, Saatchi & Saatchi confirmed Dr. Martens had ended its contract. In its official statement the agency informed that it has terminated the employee who breached instructions not to distribute the ads further than the one British magazine.
In addition to it, the agency also defended the advertisement stating, ‘We believe the ads are edgy but not offensive. There has been blog commentary both for and against the ads, but it is our belief that they are respectful of both the musicians and the Dr. Martens brand.’
Via Ad Rants
