Content associated with a promotional campaign involving a popular influencer has been withdrawn amid serious allegations.
In a recent development, content from a collaborative campaign featuring Heinz’s ‘Secret Sauce’ and the restaurant chain German Donor Kebab (GDK) has been swiftly removed following the arrest of popular social media influencer Yung Filly. The campaign, launched only last month, also involved internet personality Harry Pinero. However, following recent events, posts promoting the limited edition product have been taken down from both Heinz’s and GDK’s social media platforms.
Yung Filly, known for his appearances on programmes like The Great Celebrity Bake Off and his substantial following on YouTube, was recently detained in Australia under charges of sexual assault. This incident has led to a domino effect, prompting other brands to dissociate from the YouTuber. Renowned retailer M&S has ceased a joint venture with the Football Association, in which Filly was slated to interview noted sports figures including Bukayo Saka, Ezri Konsa, and Jarrod Bowen.
The news coincides with Heinz addressing a separate controversy involving its advertisements. The company recently issued an apology after two of its campaigns faced criticism for racial insensitivity. One advert under scrutiny was part of a London tube campaign, criticised for perpetuating negative stereotypes, while another was withdrawn due to perceived similarities to blackface imagery.
Meanwhile, Heinz’s choice to retain content from previous collaborations, such as the Barbie-cue sauce launched with Mattel’s Barbie, contrasts the swift removal of the recent campaign. This decision reflects the company’s efforts to address potential reputational damage quickly and decisively in sensitive situations.
This series of events underscores the ripple effects of public controversies, highlighting the rapid reaction of brands to safeguard their image and align with societal values.
