The rampant coronavirus has changed everything from business dynamics to transforming social innuendos to economic woes and now even slogans. Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) is known around the globe for its crispy fried chicken, hot fries, and fresh buns. But regarding the current pandemic situation, KFC has decided to change their famous ‘finger lickin good’ slogan.

They claim that the slogan doesn’t fit anymore. Which is quite understandable. In times like this, precedence is given to wearing face masks and frequent hand washing. The precautionary measures are our only defense against the rampant coronavirus that has been wreaking havoc around the world. Nevertheless, they have come up with a new advertising strategy, at least temporarily. The slogan they have used for almost six decades will now be changed.

KFC ‘finger lickin good’ slogan

As of now, the advertising strategy is to pixelate or blur the words ‘finger’ and ‘lickin’ from the slogan. So, the only words left to culminate are, ‘it’s good’. All posters, packaging, and images will ensue the same strategy.

The decision, however, was made after KFC received immense backlash regarding its catchphrase and advertising. A montage filled with people licking their own fingers showcased conflict to precautionary measures. Finger lickin’ that too amid the virus refuted advice to stop the spread of the virus. According to the World Health Organization, keeping your hands clean is one of the most important precautionary measures. They recommend cleaning your hands for 20 to 30 seconds with an anti-bacterial soap to ensure the utmost hygiene levels. However, more than 150 complained to the Advertising Standards Authority in March 2020.

For now, KFC claims, that they would return the slogan when the situation is in control or better yet when the time is right. But one thing is for sure, KFC completely understood people’s concerns and the complaints registered against their advertising. 

Effective marketing and advertising strategy

Examples like this are a notion to understand that the first step towards effective marketing and advertising strategy is listening to customers. In this era, precedence is now given to people’s concerns and their feelings. Brands and companies alike are now changing their vision to a more customer-centric approach. Not only this, how successful your marketing campaign is, resides upon how well you can relate to people around you. The pandemic has made one thing clear; corporate social responsibility, empathy, and transparency play a huge role in shaping a company’s purpose and objectives. Make sure you stay up-to-date with all the latest marketing-related news by following the best marketing blog on TwitterFacebookInstagram, and LinkedIn.