The original creators of the iconic “Not happy, Jan” advertisement are unhappy with Darrell Lea for ripping off the idea in its latest TV advertising campaign.
Sensis, which was responsible for the Yellow Pages “Not happy, Jan” ad in 2000, has issued a cease and desist letter to chocolate maker Darrell Lea for their new campaign, which began airing this week.
The latest remake of the ad made by the chocolate company replaces the iconic last line with “No worries, Jan” and features a large block of chocolate on screen.
“We are flattered that Darrell Lea has used our iconic yellow pages advertising, featuring ‘Not happy, Jan’,” said Yellow Pages executive general manager James Ciuffetelli.
“However, it has been used without our consultation or approval. To see the Yellow Pages brand, which is iconic and trusted by many Australians, and our beloved character Jan, used by another company for commercial gain is a total shock to us and our customers.
“By imitating our ad, we believe it is misleading to consumers.
“It’s clear on social media that a number of people believe Yellow Pages has endorsed this campaign, which is not the case.”
Mr Ciuffetelli said Sensis was acting to protect its investment and brand goodwill and had requested the ad be taken off air.
Original article – https://www.heraldsun.com.au/news/law-order/sensis-calls-for-darrell-leas-no-worries-jan-ad-to-be-blocked/news-story/32996e6f48607741dffcc214d9424ed1
