Brand Tracker

Welcome to the automated Brand Tracker diaries.

Canada

KFC Breaks Up With Utensils in New ‘Finger Lickin’ Good’ Ad

Brand: KFC

Campaign: Sorry, Utensils

Source: https://www.adweek.com/creativity/kfc-expresses-remorse-for-the-utensils-left-behind-by-its-finger-lickin-good-chicken/?itm_source=parsely-api&itm_source=homepage&itm_medium=most-shared-center&itm_campaign=3

Goal: To apologize for the misuse of utensils with KFC's food

Claim: Finger lickin' good

Summary: KFC Canada launched the 'Sorry, Utensils' campaign to publicly apologize for the utensils left unused due to its 'finger lickin' good' chicken, which has been the brand's tagline since the 1950s, created by agency Courage.

Japan

Apology Press Conference Resembles ‘New Product Launch’ – Numerous Issues from Attire to Self-Introduction in Prudential’s Case, Lessons Not Learned from Fuji TV’s Issues

Brand: Prudential Life Insurance

Campaign: Apology Press Conference

Source: https://www.advertimes.com/20260128/article532615/

Goal: To address and apologize for inappropriate monetary receipt issues

Summary: On January 23, Prudential Life Insurance held an apology press conference addressing issues related to inappropriate monetary receipts by over 100 employees. While the management offered apologies and prevention measures, the event sparked controversy on social media due to the host's inappropriate behavior and attire, overshadowing the intended message. Experts criticized the execution of the event, suggesting that the focus on a stylish presentation detracted from the seriousness of the apology.

apology corporate communication Crisis Management public relations

South Korea

Starbucks Korea raided following controversial ‘Tank Day’ campaign

Brand: Starbucks

Campaign: Tank Day

Source: https://www.marketing-interactive.com/starbucks-korea-raided-following-controversial-tank-day-campaign

Goal: Promote a new line of tumblers

Claim: Put it on the table with a sound of 'Tak!'

Summary: Starbucks Korea's 'Tank Day' marketing campaign faced severe backlash after it coincided with the anniversary of the 1980 Gwangju Uprising. The promotional tagline, 'Put it on the table with a sound of 'Tak!',' drew criticism due to its insensitive historical implications. Following a police raid and internal investigation, Starbucks Korea and its parent company Shinsegae Group issued formal apologies as the controversy led to a significant sales decline and outcry from the public and political figures.

apology controversy marketing failure public backlash