Kool-Aid not looking so Cool.

Recently in my Public Relations class, we have been talking about the offensive Hacienda Mexican Restaurant billboard. The ad references a cult that was formed in the 1970s which led to the death of many. He commanded his followers to drink cyanide-adulterated punch, which was the cause of the deaths. 


They play on these actions saying their restaurant is like a cult and everyone should stop by. But also, their place is to "die for" since they will be drinking the deadly drink but now with "kool-aid." Personally, I think the play on words is creative, it is just not appropriate for the public. 


This is still a sensitive subject to people, and this advertising campaign was not popular among communities. Other people viewed this ad as comical and a light-hearted joke. The company took the ad down shortly have the magnitude of complaints. Even if it is funny to a few people, it has been offensive many and it was a good discussion to take down the ad. The company is dealing with damaged reputation and should work on another approach to advertising. If many of their customers were offended, they obviously are not doing a great job reading their targets (which is key in advertising)!