Nando's says it's NOT chickening out

24 Apr 2009

After all the controversy around Nando's and the “Julius Malema” ad, the ANCYL and Nando's have agreed (in true South African style) to resolve the disagreement by disassociating the ANCYL brand Julius Malema in the current Nando's TV campaign. This follows a meeting between its representatives and the ANCYL yesterday, Thursday, 23 April 2009, after which Nando's issued a statement, refuting claims that it had "chickened out".

Nando's national marketing manager, Sylvester Chauke agreed that the brand will take into consideration and address all the allegations from the ANCYL while still retaining the Nando's edge and personality.

The meeting, held at the ANC headquarters, was a true mzansi meeting with high spirits and humour along the way. “We are pleased that the ANCYL sees the humour in the advertising. However, we understand their sensitivity around using their leader Julius," said Chauke.

Senior brand manager Lara Easthorpe said, “The ad was not aimed at poking fun at Julius Malema but rather about providing a light heartedness during this serious time of elections.”

Chauke added, “Our campaign was all about bringing a fun element to the elections - we have done that and are happy with the energy it has created."

But Nando's insisting it is NOT chickening out. Stay tuned to your TV screens for more...

The ongoing cock fight has also brought out the best - or worst - in puns. Here are some of our favourites so far:

The Star has had "Nando's lays new Malema egg". Sowetan has been very plucky with "Nando's chickens out, plucks ad" and "Chicken feed". The Times has take a fowl approach with "ANC youth cry fowl over Nando's ad" and "Nando's chickens out" while Thought Leader has been toying with "Malema promises a toy-toy with ever Nando's full chicken peri-peri".

Finally, just to prove great minds think alike, Dispatch Online has gone with "Youth league cooks Nando's goose" and "Malema advert ruffles ANC Youth League's feathers" - and so did we here on Bizcommunity.com with "Nando's 'Julius' ad ruffles ANCYL feathers".

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