Campbell Soup is running this ad as part of a Swanson broth campaign aimed at gays and lesbians. This particular ad profiles the holiday traditions of chef Lea Forant and her partner Carolyn, provides a recipe for butternut squash bisque and features an adorable photo of the two women with their son Eli.
Complaints about this ad and the rest of the campaign are coming from predictable sources. Campbell makes no apologies. The company's rep Anthony Sanzio says:
Our position on this is pretty straightforward. Inclusion and diversity play an important role in our business, and that fact is reflected in our marketing plan. For more than a century, people from all walks for life have enjoyed Campbell's products, and we will continue to try to communicate in ways that are meaningful and relevant to them."
You can read more about the controversy at Advertising Age.
I am going out tomorrow and must remember to buy several cans of Campbell's soup.
Posted by: Cactus Wren | 29 December 2008 at 09:17 AM