In a time when breaking the norm is becoming the norm, Burger King has just released an ad showing the ugly side of food advertisement. In promoting their new stance on removing artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives, Burger King has caught the attention of millions by advertising a moldy old burger. Founder of drinks brand Tenzing Natural Energy, Huib van Bockel, said, “I love it. It’s about time. It’s so important to be open and honest. Of course, food perishes what is controversial about that? Only thing that worries me is: were there actually artificial preservatives in there?” It’s a step into marketing real product.

Not only does this promote realism, but it also has attracted a lot of attention towards Burger King. Conversations on social media platforms have almost doubled about Burger King. A divide between people who praised and criticised the advertisements has also formed. There are just as many critics and people who like the real advertisement.

Johnny Shaw, chief strategy officer at VCCP New York, thinks the advertisement has gotten the target audience all wrong. The people who are talking about it are people who wouldn’t step foot in a Burger King to begin with. The advertisement has reached an audience past it’s normal target audience.

https://www.cnbc.com/2020/02/20/burger-kings-moldy-whopper-ad-is-dividing-marketing-experts.html