MAM
McDonald’s pulls off controversial China ad
MUMBAI: According to media reports from China, a McDonald’s television ad that showed a Chinese man begging has been taken off the air in the country following complaints. The McDonald’s ad was pulled earlier this month from stations in Shanghai and at least three other major cities.
Viewers protested that the ad’s depiction of a middle-aged man on his knees begging for a discount was disturbing because Chinese consider such an act humiliating, say the reports.
McDonald’s, in its statement to local media, defended the ad as an attempt at humor. It also expressed “regret over any (bad) associations or misunderstandings.” McDonald’s said that the particular ad was a publicity exercise for its year-round special offers. “The ad contained no hidden messages,” the statement added.
McDonald’s is the latest of several multinational companies whose ad has run into rough ‘Chinese’ weather. In December, China banned an ad by Nike Inc. showing NBA star LeBron James in a mock video game setting defeating a kung fu master, two women in traditional Chinese attire and a pair of dragons.
McDonald’s has plans to open about 100 more restaurants in China this year.
Brands
Hyundai Motor India rolls out nationwide AC check-up camp from April 10
Limited-period service drive offers discounts, free checks to beat summer heat
GURUGRAM: Hyundai Motor India Limited has announced a nationwide AC check-up camp, rolling out from April 10 to April 18, as temperatures climb and car cabins begin to feel the heat.
The initiative is designed to keep vehicles cool and customers comfortable, offering a mix of free inspections, discounted services and value-added benefits across Hyundai’s extensive service network in India.
As part of the limited-period campaign, customers can avail a complimentary 30-point vehicle check-up along with a free dry wash. The company is also offering a 15 per cent discount on AC servicing, including gas refills, and similar savings on wheel alignment and balancing. Key AC components such as compressors, condensers and cooling coils will be available at a 10 per cent discount, while value-added services like AC disinfectant treatments and plastic restoration also come with reduced pricing.
The camp will be hosted across authorised Hyundai workshops nationwide, allowing customers easy access to trained technicians, genuine parts and diagnostic support without the usual hassle.
Speaking on the initiative, Hyundai Motor India Limited national service head Nilesh Shah said, “At HMIL, customer satisfaction and convenience remain at the core of our service philosophy. With the onset of summer, we are pleased to introduce our nationwide AC check-up camp to ensure that our customers enjoy a comfortable and hassle-free driving experience. This initiative reflects our commitment to delivering proactive care and enhancing vehicle performance through our strong service network across India.”
With mercury levels on the rise, Hyundai’s timely service push aims to ensure drivers stay cool behind the wheel while also nudging them towards preventive maintenance, a small check today that could save a larger repair tomorrow.
