Seems GK might be using similar tactics as Shep's did previously, to try to appeal to dumbass male drinkers (while simultaneously irritating other people who might otherwise want to drink their beer). I think it's inspired by the whole countryside/hunting debate. IMO it's stupid, ill-timed and broadly false, GK is hardly a quaint country brewer anymore & Ruddles is a long way from its Rutland home. cheers MikeMcG
Use the following humungously long URL - I'm proud of it :~)
There were 51 complaints about the advert for Ruddles ale which featured a shotgun positioned at the reader from between two pub stools, and read: "Excuse me, I believe that's my seat."
Complainants said the advertisement, which appeared in newspapers, was offensive and irresponsible because it condoned the threatening use of guns.
The Union Pub Company said the advert was particularly offensive to pub landlords.
Greene King, which produces Ruddles, said the advert was part of their "uncompromisingly from the country" campaign, which targeted male bitter-drinkers who would recognise the humour behind the advertisement.
The Advertising Standards Authority said on Wednesday the advertisement was "unlikely to be seen as condoning or provoking anti-social behaviour" but added it could be considered threatening and was likely to cause "serious or widespread offence".
The authority told Greene King not to run the advertisement again.