Sarft cracks down on "happy" ads

SHANGHAI - McDonald's and Nippon Paint have joined Coca-Cola in suspending advertising in China following a decree by the State Administration for Radio, Film and Television (Sarft) banning TV commercials with a “happy” tone, in recognition of the victims of the recent Sichaun earthquake.

Jacqueline Wu, account director for McDonald’s at DDB Guoan in Shanghai, explained that the fast food giant was to postpone its forthcoming campaign for Dip Dip Nuggets, which had been scheduled for launch today, until next week. The campaign would be edited to focus on showcasing the product, with the thematic element removed, Wu said.

Wu commented that while the decision was regrettable with regard to potential loss of business, it was important to avoid the risk any negative association with the brand at such a sensitive time.