Betfair and GVC Holdings both had recent run ins with the UK Advertising Standards Authority that left one of the operators cleared of all wrongdoing and one walking away with a slap on the wrist. Betfair won out over an absolutely absurd complaint, while GVC Holdings was chided for maybe suggesting that gambling was a good alternative to work.
Betfair was taken to task by the ASA over an ad that showed two men in an airport. One of the men was rushing to catch a flight while the other casually ambled to the plane while playing on the company’s app. The add goes on to say, “WHEN THERE’S A CHANCE, THERE’S ALWAYS A CHANCE.”
Some overheated UK resident decided that the ad suggested the man was prioritizing gambling over everyday life. Betfair officials argued that he was simply laid back and that his casual attire suggested as much. Regulators agreed and dismissed the whole, ridiculous affair.
GVC Holdings’ clash with the ASA came over an ad reading, “Earn Money Online – Foxy Games – Play Online”. Now this is arguably a bit edgier, but anyone taking it literally may not be as in touch with reality as their ability to lodge a complaint would suggest. According to CalvinAyre.com, GVC Holdings took a pass on defending the ad, chalking it up to human error, and took a slap on the wrist and a stern reminder not to be naughty again.
Both operators were likely thrilled by the opportunity to expend precious corporate resources during the worst economic crash since the Great Depression on frivolous complaints by overheated homebodies.