In a controversial piece of real-time marketing, Snickers has sent TV presenter Jeremy Clarkson free chocolate bars after the Top Gear presenter was suspended over a ‘fracas’ over hotel food.
Earlier this week, Clarkson was suspended from the popular motoring show after a ‘fracas’ with an Irish producer.
The incident was allegedly over the catering options, and there were some harsh words exchanged about a cold meat platter.
In keeping with the brand’s ‘You’re Not You When You’re Hungry’ campaign, Snickers UK sent a parcel of 48 chocolate bars to the Top Gear studios, accompanied by a cheeky Tweet.
Social media users have so far retweeted over the brand’s message over 1,200 times.
Most reactions were positive:
Newsjacking at its finest via @SnickersUK: @JeremyClarkson have some of these on set next time you are #hungry pic.twitter.com/c3bowo6EHX
— Steve Kerr (@StephenKerr) March 12, 2015
But some were negative and pointed out the serious nature of the alleged assault- highlighting the controversial nature of real-time marketing.
@SnickersUK It would be awful if a company sought to use assault as an advertising opportunity….
— Jill Hayward (@frdragonspouse) March 13, 2015