Adland may be doing its darndest to foster more inclusive and diverse images in its messaging, but that’s not say everyone’s a fan.
A case in point is a new campaign from British catalogue retailer Argos that features a (presumably) black gay couple and their two kids.
The spot, which was shared on the retailer’s Twitter account, features the family enjoying a range of items in their garden for an outdoor movie night, including a popcorn machine, an outdoor projector screen, comfy seats and a children’s toy car.
Commenting on the spot, Argos said it was “proud to represent modern Britain”.
However, the ad’s touched a nerve with some Brits who claim it is a long way from representing modern Britain and family values.
Some going so far as to report the ad to the UK’s watchdog, Ofcom.
Check out the colourful work below:
Taking to Twitter, people offended by the ad posted: “So @Argos_Online isn’t interested in white folks then. Fine, we’ll use somebody else. See how long @Argos_Online lasts without white customers!!!”
Another added: “Can we not complain to @Ofcom? There must be something in the advertising standards @Argos_Online or are they just providing their products to black people now? Is this another company that needs to be boycotted?”
While a third added: “Have you thought that the advert features a gay, female couple?”
Thankfully, the ad found its share of supporters too with many people calling out the “racist comments” which were “embarrassing” and “disgusting”.
As one fan of the ad tweeted: “The ONE time that Argos put black people in an advert and everyone is outraged? How embarrassing.”
