3 viral mocks T-Mobile ad ban

by Staff, Campaign 21-Nov-08, 12:30

LONDON - Mobile phone operator 3 has produced a cheeky viral mocking its rival T-Mobile for ads which were banned by the ad watchdogs earlier this week.

On Wednesday, the Advertising Standards Authority banned a press ad and brochure for T-Mobile which used the line "You won't find more minutes for £30. Guaranteed", following a complaint from 3.

Today, 3 spoofed one of the TV spots from the same campaign, where a vet sticks his hand up the backend of a cow.

In the T-Mobile version, by Saatchi & Saatchi, the vet, looking for extra minutes, was unable to find anything during his rummage.

But in the new version, the vet manages to find a logo for 3.

In making its original decision, the ASA upheld 3's claim that the press ads and brochure were misleading because its Mix & Match 1100 tariff offers up to 1100 voice minutes for £27.

The T-Mobile TV ads, which also featured a man's voice during a séance and people on an archaeological dig, escaped censure from the ASA, as they did not make the same "guaranteed" claim.

Comments

Dave Stoker - 21/11/2008

Good point, well made. I like it.

Carl Martin - 21/11/2008

hate it.

harry fowler - 21/11/2008

So, T-Mobile were wrong but 3 can be found up a cow's arse covered in shit. Mmmmm, interesting.

Holly - 21/11/2008

I get what they're saying, and it's a funny way to do it, but pulling your logo out of a cow's backside, covered in brown slime? Is that a good thing to say about your brand?!

Dave Stoker - 21/11/2008

It didn't make me think that at all. Haven't you ever panned for gold?

dano - 21/11/2008

Dave have you ever stuck your hand up a cow's backside? I bet you have.

Dave Stoker - 21/11/2008

Alas, my farmer /adman rags-to-riches story comes out. The calves were particularly lively that year.

dano - 21/11/2008

Riches? who do you work for?

harry fowler - 21/11/2008

Dave, panning for gold up a cow's arse is not the way forward. The return for your hard work and effort, albeit misguided, will be ritual humiliation and empty pockets. I do have some magic beans you could buy.....