Michelle Malkin » Absolut arrogance and the advertising agency behind the reconquista ad; Update: Absolut’s mealy-mouthed response; Update: The Associated Press spins; The very latest 4/6: Absolut’s new, “genuine and sincere apology”

Absolut arrogance and the advertising agency behind the reconquista ad; Update: Absolut’s mealy-mouthed response; Update: The Associated Press spins; The very latest 4/6: Absolut’s new, “genuine and sincere apology”

By Michelle Malkin • April 4, 2008 05:35 AM

Scroll down for updates…Absolut’s blog response is here…more photoshops here…Weekend update: The Associated Press spins…4/6 A new, “genuine and sincere apology” from Absolut

You know what has been heartening the past two days as reaction to the Absolut Reconquista ad continues to pour in? The fact that so many of you still take our sovereignty seriously and are willing to give voice to your concerns without apologizing for it. I’m including a sample of e-mails below.

But first: The advertising firm that created the Absolut Reconquista ad is Teran/TBWA. Teran is based in Mexico City. The company’s website boasts a pretentious statement of philosophy advocating “disruption” as a “tool for change” and “agent of growth.” (Scroll your mouse over the little buttons in the upper-right margin.) The firm advocates “overturning assumptions and prejudices that get in the way of imagining new possibilities and visionary ideas that help create a larger share of the future.”

Translation: The company advocates overturning borders that get in the way of imagining new maps of North America that help Mexico create a larger share of the continent.

Reader S. wonders if this ad will be next in the Absolut map-drawing/ethnic supremacy/nation-erasing campaign:

Patrick Ishmael wonders how Sweden would like a taste of Absolut sovereignty-sabotaging.

The LA Times blog has a brief write-up about the ad controversy here:

The billboard and press campaign, created by advertising agency Teran\TBWA and now running in Mexico, is a colorful map depicting what the Americas might look like in an “Absolut” — i.e., perfect — world.

The U.S.-Mexico border lies where it was before the Mexican-American war of 1848 when California, as we now know it, was Mexican territory and known as Alta California.

Following the war, the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo saw the Mexican territories of Alta California and Santa Fé de Nuevo México ceded to the United States to become modern-day California, Texas, New Mexico, Utah, Colorado and Arizona.

The campaign taps into the national pride of Mexicans, according to Favio Ucedo, creative director of leading Latino advertising agency Grupo Gallegos in the U.S.

Ucedo, who is from Argentina, said: “Mexicans talk about how the Americans stole their land, so this is their way of reclaiming it. It’s very relevant and the Mexicans will love the idea.”

Oops. Guess he didn’t get the liberal talking points manual: You’re supposed to deny that reconquista exists and label anyone who criticizes it and mentions just how pervasive it is as a racist. I’m sure he’ll be re-educated soon enough. Write on the chalkboard 500 times: Reconquista isn’t real. And mindlessly repeat what the National Council of La Raza (The Race) claims: Reconquista is just a “code word” invented by conservative “hate groups” who are just dreaming the whole thing up.

***

Reader Michael was one of countless e-mailers who contacted Absolut yesterday about the vodka maker’s obnoxious Reconquista ad campaign.

Here’s the response Michael received from Absolut press person Jeffrey Moran:

Your message

To: Moran, Jeffrey
Cc:
Subject: Offensive ad
Sent: Thu, 3 Apr 2008 15:18:30 -0400

was deleted without being read on Thu, 3 Apr 2008 16:28:51 -0400

Reader Larry P. phoned Moran and also got the brush-off:

Michelle -

I called Jeffrey Moran at the number you show, & was surprised that he was the one who answered the phone. I simply told him the Mexican ad was horrendous & that I would never buy any Absolut products & he should be fired. He said it wasn’t his idea, & hung up.

Larry Pitet
Sheridan, WY

Reader Pam also talked to Moran:

Dear Michelle:

I contacted Jeffrey Moran of Absolut. He was very rude.

I found out that the new owner of Absolut is Pernod Ricard, USA, and their headquarters is located at Purchase, N.Y. Phone number: 914-848-4800.

Jeffrey Moran, is not concerned about the insult to Americans with their Mexican ad. Maybe Pernod Ricard USA will be.

Sincerely,

Pam Barre

Reader V. e-mailed this message to Absolut:

Your map is just plain damn dumb. Apparently you and the market base you are pandering to is really, really short in the history department.

In July, 1848, the United States government purchased that portion of what is now Texas, save and except that part already given independence from Mexico (i.e. The Republic of Texas), all of what is now New Mexico, Arizona, Nevada, California, Utah, Wyoming and a part of Colorado for a total of $15MM in 1848 dollars, and the then existing Mexican debt (whatever that was).

If Absolut Vodka and your intended market base want to talk about re-purchasing all that land, PLUS IMPROVEMENTS AND SERVICES, in today’s dollars, I for one will talk to you about my half-acre in North Texas. The purchase price shall include all the improvements surrounding the property plus the cost of installation of all utilities and services to the property, and my specific property’s fair reimbursement of the costs of illegal alien benefits from city, county, state and federal services.

Poor babies: You have lost more market share that you could ever have hoped to gain.

Reader M.C.:

Mr. Moran,

Absolut has every right to produce such an ad. I hope you are crystal clear that your customers have every right to condemn it.

I make the best Bloody Mary you will every drink, and from here on refuse to use Absolut.

This is a despicable ad.

Reader Matt, a bar owner in California, e-mailed several Absolut execs in Sweden:

Absolut -

I run a bar in Pt. Richmond, California - where the Kaiser Liberty Ships were built during WWII. After seeing your ad Campaign where you show a western map of the United States in which California is part of Mexico again, I’ve decided to do the following…

1) Never carry Absolut. Ever.
2) Lower the price of Ketel One vodka to $2 a shot indefinitely to build loyalty.
3) Print a copy of your ad and put it above the Ketel One drink special.
4) Tell all my friends and family what Absolut thinks of the United States of America and our right to enforce border laws.

I am on the front line of illegal immigration and its effects. Where are you? Oh yes, Sweden.
Good riddance.

Sincerely,

Matthew Rogers
Pt. Richmond, Ca.

Reader Dev wrote:

Dear Mr. Moran–

I didn’t know Absolut could give a person that big a buzz to commit such poor judgment. I’ve got to give your company’s brand a try.

I suppose in Germany, your company is running the “Deutschland, uber alles” ad campaign — with a map showing all of Europe and Russia under the swastika moniker of the Third Reich. If your company moves quickly, I think it can hire the open car racing president for the TV ad part of the campaign–I understand he and his “associates” already have the necessary uniforms for the role. (They apparently also have some camera equipment for further cost efficiency.)

Keep up the good work–I love the theme, and I’m sure it will be a real winner.

And reader Paul:

Your company’s illustration of Mexico occupying a large part of the western United States is reprehensible for myriad reasons. Not only is it an anachronistic and ersatz view of geography, it also unnecessarily inflames American/Mexican tensions. I understand that marketing is to be provocative, but when it can be used as propaganda for certain people/nations it has crossed the line into the political realm and is, therefore, inappropriate.

It is my hope that this sophomoric and insulting ad is suspended immediately.

Most sincerely,
Paul D. Hergert

***

Update: Absolut responds with embrace-diversity talking points…

The In An Absolut World advertising campaign invites consumers to visualize a world that appeals to them — one they feel may be more idealized or one that may be a bit “fantastic.” As such, the campaign will elicit varying opinions and points of view. We have a variety of executions running in countries worldwide, and each is germane to that country and that population.

This particular ad, which ran in Mexico, was based upon historical perspectives and was created with a Mexican sensibility. In no way was this meant to offend or disparage, nor does it advocate an altering of borders, nor does it lend support to any anti-American sentiment, nor does it reflect immigration issues. Instead, it hearkens to a time which the population of Mexico may feel was more ideal.

As a global company, we recognize that people in different parts of the world may lend different perspectives or interpret our ads in a different way than was intended in that market. Obviously, this ad was run in Mexico, and not the US — that ad might have been very different.

By Paula Eriksson, VP Corporate Communications, V&S Absolut Spirits

***

Update: The Associated Press was forced to cover the story. I’m not sure why they headline it as Absolut “apologizing.” (It was one of those “sorry if we offended” non-apologies. Also note the AP’s spinning of reconquista ideology as “fringe.” Yeah, it’s so “fringe” that a global corporation incorporated it in a major ad campaign:

The Absolut vodka company apologized Saturday for an ad campaign depicting the southwestern U.S. as part of Mexico amid angry calls for a boycott by U.S. consumers.

The campaign, which promotes ideal scenarios under the slogan “In an Absolut World,” showed a 1830s-era map when Mexico included California, Texas and other southwestern states. Mexico still resents losing that territory in the 1848 Mexican-American War and the fight for Texas independence.

But the ads, which ran only in Mexico and have since ended, were less than ideal for Americans undergoing a border buildup and embroiled in an emotional debate over illegal immigration from their southern neighbor.

More than a dozen calls to boycott Absolut were posted on michellemalkin.com, a Web site operated by conservative columnist Michelle Malkin. The ads sparked heated comment on a half-dozen other Internet sites and blogs.

“In no way was it meant to offend or disparage, nor does it advocate an altering of borders, nor does it lend support to any anti-American sentiment, nor does it reflect immigration issues,” Absolut said in a statement left on its consumer inquiry phone line.
Some fringe U.S. groups also claim the land is rightfully part of Mexico, while extreme immigration foes argue parts of the U.S. already are being overtaken by Mexico.

At least we know the AP is reading your comments:

“In an Absolut world, a company that produces vodka fires its entire marketing department in a desperate attempt to win back enraged North American customers after a disastrous ad campaign backfires,” a person using the moniker “SalsaNChips” wrote on Malkin’s Web site.

Update: Absolut tries again. I think they are starting to get it:

We apologize
Posted Sunday, April 06, 2008, 7:38:29 PM

During the weekend we have received several comments on the ad published in Mexico. We acknowledge the reactions and debate and want to apologize for the concerns this ad caused. We are truly sorry and understand that the ad has offended several persons. This was not our intention. The ad has been withdrawn as of Friday April 4th and will not be used in the future.

In no way was the ad meant to offend or disparage, or advocate an altering of borders, lend support to any anti-American sentiment, or to reflect immigration issues.

To ensure that we avoid future similar mistakes, we are adjusting our internal advertising approval process for ads that are developed in local markets.

This is a genuine and sincere apology,

By Paula Eriksson, VP Corporate Communications, V&S Absolut Spirits

Posted in: Reconquista

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#1

On April 4th, 2008 at 5:58 am, Pickle said:

I’d like to say I’m boycotting Absolut, but did anyone drink that piss before this anyway?

Smirnoff 80 proof here.
#2

On April 4th, 2008 at 6:14 am, Kevin K. said:

I shall make sure that my friends know about this offensive ad. While the previous ads had been kind of fun, this is in enough bad taste to remove Absolut from consideration when buying vodka.
#3

On April 4th, 2008 at 6:19 am, Turbodog said:

The best vodka comes from Texas.
http://www.titos-vodka.com/titos.html
#4

On April 4th, 2008 at 6:21 am, jamesgreenidge said:

It would almost be amusing weren’t for the fact that TOO many (conservatively speaking!) south the border are so damn serious about moving OUR border up this way. When are most pols here going to take the glaring hint?

James Greenidge
Queens NY
#5

On April 4th, 2008 at 6:21 am, Cameron said:

Hmph. First I have to get rid of Smirnoff because they used Che in one of their ads, then Absolut pulls this nonsense.

Thankfully, folks on this site have good leads on better vodka.
#6

On April 4th, 2008 at 6:22 am, elpresidente said:

What a marketing genius.

Moran? Try Moron.
#7

On April 4th, 2008 at 6:24 am, Dandapani said:

Let them have Kommiefornia. It’s already a lost cause. But never Texas! Remember the Alamo!
#8

On April 4th, 2008 at 6:57 am, rooster said:

Could someone please send this to the 3 stooges, Hillary, Obama and Juan and ask what they think.

No disrespect to Larry, Curly and Moe, American icons.
#9

On April 4th, 2008 at 7:04 am, Mainframe said:

Pardon the pun, but I’m in the same (sorta) pickle with Pickle: I’d love to boycott that-vodka-brand-which-shall-not-be-named, but I drink Belvedere!
#10

On April 4th, 2008 at 7:12 am, capitano said:

On April 4th, 2008 at 6:22 am, elpresidente said:

What a marketing genius.

Moran? Try Moron.

LOL, you reminded me of this.
#11

On April 4th, 2008 at 7:13 am, coffee260 said:

The “Absolut” Solution!!!
#12

On April 4th, 2008 at 7:20 am, TMoney said:

This isn’t simple pandering; this is blatantly UN-AMERICAN.
The board of whatever company approved this monstrosity of an ad campaign owes my country - and all its citizens - an apology.
#13

On April 4th, 2008 at 7:29 am, Fineous Reese said:

mmm…Titos! I’m not a big fan of vodka but Titos is indeed good stuff. Support the homebrew!

This gent Moran sounds like an Absolut Moron, who cares if it wasn’t his idea if he’s in position to handle the public in regards to it?
#14

On April 4th, 2008 at 7:45 am, 30 pcs of silver said:

I could careless whose brainchild this ad was… I am pretty darn sure that it was sent through and approved by the appropriate chain of command. Therefore, everyone who agreed that this was a great ad and that it should go to print, should have their head examined. If you can’t find a better way of marketing without pissing off a portion of your consumer base then you should get out the business of selling products. You shouldn’t be controversial for the sake of being controversial.
#15

On April 4th, 2008 at 8:22 am, Barry F. said:

Yes. Moran is an Absolut Moron.

No more Absolut Vodka in our household. I told Moron in my e-mail yesterday that we would use bottom shelf brands, if we have to. No more Absolut.

Thanks for the heads up on Smirnoff. I don’t think I had heard about the Che thing. They too are now off the list.

I concur with others on here, let’s give Titos a whirl.
#16

On April 4th, 2008 at 8:23 am, vsatt said:

Let the idiots have the whole freakin Southwest. They think it’s the land of milk and honey, but once it falls under the Mexican gov’t, it will be the same cesspool of poverty and corruption they have now. And the funny part is, they won’t be able to migrate into the remaining US so easily because once those states see what happens to the “reconquered”, they’ll build something that makes the Berlin Wall look like a white picket fence.
#17

On April 4th, 2008 at 8:41 am, Rinoalert said:

The Palestine map would have really gotten their attention if it was Israel instead.
#18

On April 4th, 2008 at 8:43 am, rooster said:

I buy “Military Special” distilled in Baltimore. Don’t know if it is only for sale on military installations, I get mine at Naval Air Station Meridian, Ms.

I will give this add to the manager on base and see if he can do anything about the absolut on our shelves.
#19

On April 4th, 2008 at 8:44 am, Paul Green said:

Check out the comments to this story by “AzTemoc”:

http://www.eastvalleytribune.com/story/112959

Reconquista-ism at its most rabid.
#20

On April 4th, 2008 at 8:49 am, Tom Blogical said:

If anyone expects Absolut to apologize or change their marketing strategy, think again. This is the same company that advertises, “In an Absolut world, the planet would be a cooler place.” Then they go on to list what you must do to donate to the “Global Cooling” charities of your choice.

I’m not surprised with their Reconquista marketing at all, and I don’t expect them to give an inch. They think they’re right, and they think anyone who differs with them are idiots. It’s a pattern with people of this political persuasion.
#21

On April 4th, 2008 at 8:55 am, ajmontana said:

yuck, vodka, might as well drink rubbing alcohol and take a bite out of a raw potato.
#22

On April 4th, 2008 at 9:00 am, lgm said:

Patrick Ishmael wonders how Sweden would like a taste of Absolut sovereignty-sabotaging.

Sweden would like it just fine. The Finns would be upset. The reason is that there was a time when that was the map of Sweden. There are many ethnic Swedes living in Finland and many Finns to this day resent Sweden.

Some in these threads love insulting the intelligence of people who prove in their posts that they don’t know what they’re talking about. Why not help giving Patrick Ishmael a hand?
#23

On April 4th, 2008 at 9:06 am, On-my-soap-box said:

On April 4th, 2008 at 9:00 am, lgm said: Some in these threads love insulting the intelligence of people who prove in their posts that they don’t know what they’re talking about.

Two things.

1. You are the master
2. Where is your Christian bashing moment
#24

On April 4th, 2008 at 9:12 am, Barry F. said:

On April 4th, 2008 at 9:06 am, On-my-soap-box said:

1. You are the master
2. Where is your Christian bashing moment

The answer to item number two would be in another thread, Soap.
#25

On April 4th, 2008 at 9:15 am, 30 pcs of silver said:

Good one-two punch there, Soap and Barry F.
#26

On April 4th, 2008 at 9:18 am, Dimsdale said:

I wonder if they will try to compete with Stoli in Russia by running some ads with the USSR intact.

Might be a nice touch for the former East Germany as well….
#27

On April 4th, 2008 at 9:19 am, On-my-soap-box said:

They are everywhere Barry. The last two days he has been merciless even taking a shot at Samaritans Purse. You know, the charity that gives out millions of toys all over the world to kids who would otherwise go without?

And someone said he was not a troll but skating all over the line. Bullchips!
#28

On April 4th, 2008 at 9:23 am, granite said:

#23 On April 4th, 2008 at 9:06 am, On-my-soap-box said:

“On April 4th, 2008 at 9:00 am, lgm said: Some in these threads love insulting the intelligence of people who prove in their posts that they don’t know what they’re talking about.
Two things.

1. You are the master
2. Where is your Christian bashing moment”

Dammit, Soap, you beat me to it!

The Troll describes himself IN HIS OWN WORDS: “…people who prove in their posts that they don’t know what they’re talking about.”

Priceless!
This Troll IS the master blog jester (with apologies to Danny Kaye).
He IS the gift that just keeps on giving.
#29

On April 4th, 2008 at 9:24 am, terrig said:

I drink Grey Goose myself so can’t boycott it. I didn’t know about the Smrinoff thing and will make sure it never again appears in our house (hubby seems to like it for some reason).
#30

On April 4th, 2008 at 9:28 am, Barry F. said:

On April 4th, 2008 at 9:23 am, granite said:

He IS the gift that just keeps on giving.

This is an instance where I believe we should be regifting. But, I don’t know anyone on my list to whom I would pass him. Anyone else got a “naughty list” that bad?
#31

On April 4th, 2008 at 9:29 am, Barry F. said:

On April 4th, 2008 at 9:28 am, Barry F. said:
On April 4th, 2008 at 9:23 am, granite said:

He IS the gift that just keeps on giving.
This is an instance where I believe we should be regifting. But, I don’t know anyone on my list to whom I would pass him. Anyone else got a “naughty list” that bad?

Ooops! Wrong thread for that post!
#32

On April 4th, 2008 at 9:30 am, Barry F. said:

Oh, wait. It was the right thread!
#33

On April 4th, 2008 at 9:39 am, Cameron said:

In all fairness, the use of Che’s picture in Smirnoff happened back around 2000. But I don’t forgive very easily or quickly.

And before I forget: Thank you to those who posted the responses they got from Moran. Says a lot about the company when they brush off complaints so quickly and rudely.
#34

On April 4th, 2008 at 9:45 am, RaisedRight said:

The response I received for the email I sent Jeffrey Moran:

Out of Office AutoReply: In an Absolut World campaign‏
From: Jeffrey.Moran@absolut.com
Sent: Fri 4/04/08 8:19 AM
To:

This email box is closed and no longer receiving email.
#35

On April 4th, 2008 at 9:52 am, Barry F. said:

On April 4th, 2008 at 9:45 am, RaisedRight said:

The response I received for the email I sent Jeffrey Moran:

Out of Office AutoReply: In an Absolut World campaign‏
From: Jeffrey.Moran@absolut.com
Sent: Fri 4/04/08 8:19 AM
To:

This email box is closed and no longer receiving email.

Well, I guess Absolut is tired of hearing from the consumers. I’m surprised they waited this long.
#36

On April 4th, 2008 at 9:57 am, ex-expat said:

A BTW, guys, from a Google news search I did, Absolut is to be bought out by a French firm. Nothing though on this flap.
#37

On April 4th, 2008 at 9:57 am, sfcmac said:

Isent this along to Pernod Ricard, USA and Moran:

RE: Your ‘absolute’ stupidity reflected in your ad campaign showing Mexico as most of the United States, with the caption “In an Absolut World”:

Newsflash:

Mexicans are not even Latin by ancestry. They are descendents of Aztecs, Mayans, and Incas, who were invaded, occupied, and Catholicized by the Spanish Conquistadors, who also took the western part of the American continent, including California, away from the native people. (”Indians”)

At the end of the Mexican-American War, (1846–1848) Mexico ceded 525,000 square miles to the United States in exchange for $15 million; equivalent to $313 million in today’s dollars.

The “you stole our land” mantra is unmitigated bullshit. Get your history straight before you try to appeal to the “La Raza” anarchists and illegal aliens.

In a perfect world, US Code Title 8 would be enforced, our borders would be secured and montiored properly, and all of the illegals in this country would be deported.

SFC Cheryl McElroy
US ARMY (RET)
#38

On April 4th, 2008 at 10:03 am, BlameAmericaLast said:

It really doesn’t matter who created the ad, it was obviously approved by senior marketing management at Absolut. Apparently, Absolut was sold to Pernod Ricard, a French company just last month.

Allowing an ad agency to interject their own personal political beliefs in a campaign that’s supposed to attract the general drinking public to their product is beyond me.

This Jeffrey Moran guy is low level. This issue needs to go higher to the VP level.
#39

On April 4th, 2008 at 10:03 am, Barry F. said:

On April 4th, 2008 at 9:57 am, ex-expat said:

A BTW, guys, from a Google news search I did, Absolut is to be bought out by a French firm. Nothing though on this flap.

Yeah. I read that yesterday. I guess Absolut’s next marketing ploy will be a map showing the land from the Louisiana Purchase in pink or something.
#40

On April 4th, 2008 at 10:12 am, pressto said:

He never bothered to respond back to the e-mail I wrote.
#41

On April 4th, 2008 at 10:14 am, capitano said:

On April 4th, 2008 at 8:23 am, vsatt said:

Let the idiots have the whole freakin Southwest. They think it’s the land of milk and honey, but once it falls under the Mexican gov’t, it will be the same cesspool of poverty and corruption they have now.

You mean like the Gaza Strip? Somehow I don’t think it would be a positive thing.
#42

On April 4th, 2008 at 10:17 am, Dimsdale said:

On April 4th, 2008 at 9:57 am, ex-expat said:

A BTW, guys, from a Google news search I did, Absolut is to be bought out by a French firm. Nothing though on this flap.

Maybe Moran and other soon to be laid off employees of Absolute are lobbing a few hand grenades in the form of offensive advertising.
#43

On April 4th, 2008 at 10:23 am, spidgy said:

Skyy.
#44

On April 4th, 2008 at 10:25 am, Dimsdale said:

I got this off of Gateway Pundit:

Press inquiries from the US, please contact:
Sarah E. Bessette, Public Relations Manager
The Absolut Spirits Company, Inc.
401 Park Avenue South
New York, NY 10016
USA
Phone, direct: 212 641 8653
Fax: 212 641 87 03
E-mail: sarah.bessette@absolut.com
#45

On April 4th, 2008 at 10:29 am, Dimsdale said:

More (I cannot vouch for the veracity of the names or addresses, but it is a starting point):

If you want to contact the decision makers at V&S Group/Absolut, here is the contact info:

Chairman Claes Dahlbäck, President and CEO Bengt Baron, SVP Mats Andersson, Claes Åkesson, Sofia Leffler Moberg, Peeter Luksep, Jacob Broberg, Paula Eriksson, Jeffrey Moran, Kristina Hagbard, and Erika Gelinder

Email addresses are: Claes.Dahlback@vsgroup.com, Bengt.Baron@vsgroup.com, Mats.Andersson@vsgroup.com, Claes.akesson@vsgroup.com, sofia.leffler.moberg@vsgroup.com, ir@vsgroup.com, jacob.broberg@vsgroup.com, jeffrey.moran@absolut.com, paula.eriksson@vsgroup.com, info@vsgroup.com, siteinfo@absolut.se, kristina.hagbard@absolut.se
#46

On April 4th, 2008 at 10:31 am, patlynnfor said:

When we visit our son in California (he lives and works in San Francisco) he always asks us to bring him two things from Texas. Homemade flour tortillas and Tito’s Vodka. This is a big compliment for Titos, as we always have limited space in the car. Try it if you can get it, and ask for it at your local bar.
#47

On April 4th, 2008 at 10:40 am, Cameron said:

Sounds like the folks at Absolut are about to have a very long month.
#48

On April 4th, 2008 at 10:45 am, emjem24 said:

I wonder if certain “visitors” or liberals (including the presidential candidates) really understand the damage that illegal immigration does to our country. This ad campaign is just as offensive as people carting around the Communist hero accessories paying tribute to Che, Mao, etc.

I have a few questions for Mr Moran:

1. Do you live on the border?
2. Are you a reconquista supporter or is this just a “phase” you’re going through to make money off of?
3. Do you know what it’s like to have Latino kids insult you and this country as you’re trying to teach them how to use that “organ” between their ears?
4. Do you live in the real world?
5. Do you think that “controversial advertising” will make your product taste any better?
6. Do you think it’s right for a neighboring country to basically send people it refuses to take care of over to our country, to overwhelm our hospitals, social services, and public schools until they suck the teet of nanny state welfare government dry and move on to Canada? Oh, that’s right they’re doing that now.
7. Do you think that Spanish should be the official language?
8. With your new ad campaign, do you realize that you’re putting Absolut out of business?

If you answer yes to any of these questions then you are, without a doubt, ABSOLUTELY CRAZY!!!
#49

On April 4th, 2008 at 10:46 am, sharinlite said:

Just got off the phone with the “new owner”…Pernod Ricard. The receptionist said they had “just bought Absolut 3 days or so ago”. She also said they had been getting phone calls this morning and that “something” was going or being done. I also asked her to pass on that this moron, Jeff Moran, needs to be fired!! What a complete joke this entire situation is: bad P.R., bad history, bad graphics and stupid agency!!
#50

On April 4th, 2008 at 10:47 am, sharinlite said:

Forgot: the receptionist couldn’t “find” michellemalkin.com….so I helped her, letter by letter through it. Well, it is New Jersey isn’t it?
#51

On April 4th, 2008 at 10:58 am, emjem24 said:

lgm said:

Sweden would like it just fine. The Finns would be upset. The reason is that there was a time when that was the map of Sweden. There are many ethnic Swedes living in Finland and many Finns to this day resent Sweden.

1. This is irrelevant and immaterial to the current topic at hand.
2. A stereotypical assumption on your part.
3. I hope this is not an attempt by Europeans (and their companies) to insert their socialist opinion in to a debate that doesn’t even involve them.
4. Are you redirecting?

Some in these threads love insulting the intelligence of people who prove in their posts that they don’t know what they’re talking about. Why not help giving Patrick Ishmael a hand?

1. What did you prove?
2. You know little of the world (or the border) outside the world of academia.
3. Liberal hypocrites who live in “faulty towers” shouldn’t throw around theories they can’t prove.
4. How have you been insulted?
5. Are you whining and bleeting “victimization” again?

When you come up with something useful that suggests you’re inhabiting the same planet (let alone the same country), please let us know.
#52

On April 4th, 2008 at 10:59 am, Boomer said:

Besides significantly raising my blood pressure every time I look at this add I will try to make sure the Wing Commander gets a look at it. I will do what I can to get the Army Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) to ban Absolut at the Base Package Store (Liquor Store for our Civilian readers). I almost feel like someone is trying to start a shooting war between the US and Mexico. Most of the folks I talk to about this add are pretty steamed right now. If I was an illegal invader in Southwest Idaho I would keep a very low profile right now.
#53

On April 4th, 2008 at 10:59 am, shooter said:

On April 3rd, 2008 at 12:02 pm, shooter said;
“jeffrey.moran@absolut.com”

Think it will do any good?

I said this yesterday, not to be profiling or anything but one look at the name and BINGO….I guess I was correct in my assessment, which is too bad.
Wish I had been wrong, really.
#54

On April 4th, 2008 at 11:17 am, Thunder_Run said:

The Thunder Run has linked to this post in the - Web Reconnaissance for 04/04/2008 A short recon of what’s out there that might draw your attention, updated throughout the day…so check back often.
#55

On April 4th, 2008 at 11:30 am, Fasternu 426 said:

Drink Stolichnaya!!
#56

On April 4th, 2008 at 11:42 am, Fasternu 426 said:

Here’s my Email

Dear Sirs, as a result of your offensive ad, I will no longer be buying Absolut and will be purchasing Stolichnaya. I will be emailing Absolut and informing them of this. I will be telling my friends, family and anyone that will listen of the advert created by your company.

I will also be emailing other companies that use your services and informing them also. I see that some are in American Markets as well, or trying to break into American Markets. If your intent was to provoke, you have succeeded. One can sell their goods without being intentionally offensive.

Companies I will be emailing just to start with:
Fuji
Pedigree
Jumex
Adidas and others.

Sincerely

Email the companies that advertise with that firm.
#57

On April 4th, 2008 at 11:49 am, X_LA_Native said:

The site’s been updated due to the response to the Reconquista ad:

The In An Absolut World advertising campaign invites consumers to visualize a world that appeals to them — one they feel may be more idealized or one that may be a bit “fantastic.” As such, the campaign will elicit varying opinions and points of view. We have a variety of executions running in countries worldwide, and each is germane to that country and that population.

This particular ad, which ran in Mexico, was based upon historical perspectives and was created with a Mexican sensibility. In no way was this meant to offend or disparage, nor does it advocate an altering of borders, nor does it lend support to any anti-American sentiment, nor does it reflect immigration issues. Instead, it hearkens to a time which the population of Mexico may feel was more ideal.

As a global company, we recognize that people in different parts of the world may lend different perspectives or interpret our ads in a different way than was intended in that market. Obviously, this ad was run in Mexico, and not the US — that ad might have been very different.

By Paula Eriksson, VP Corporate Communications, V&S Absolut Spirits

Bold mine.
#58

On April 4th, 2008 at 12:07 pm, Zheldon said:

I did not write the businesses, but I did use http://www.congress.org to send a quick email to everyone.

While I don’t expect them to do anything about it I vainly hope it will open their eyes.
#59

On April 4th, 2008 at 12:12 pm, greenfairie said:

X_LA_Native, you have got to be joking? They said that??? What a load of crap!! I’m sure Russians “idealize” Soviet-era borders. I’m sure Arabs “idealize” a Middle East without Israel. I’m sure China “idealizes” possession of Taiwan. What would Absolut do if it wanted to “idealize” Greek or Turkish perceptions on Cyprus?

You know what would get their attention? If a bunch of protesters and cameras were in front of corporate headquarters, dumping out bottles of their product. If bar owners and liquor stores start refusing to carry the product.

Geraldo can drink all of this lousy booze himself, then.
#60

On April 4th, 2008 at 12:15 pm, X_LA_Native said:

greenfairie,
Not. kidding.
It’s straight from their site.
#61

On April 4th, 2008 at 12:16 pm, Zheldon said:

Greenfaire,

One drawback to that nice idea. To dump their product in front of their building requires purchasing of said product. As long as they get money for the product I don’t think they will care.
#62

On April 4th, 2008 at 12:18 pm, governmentdrone said:

On April 4th, 2008 at 11:42 am, Fasternu 426 said:

Fasternu,

Guess you missed it, but Absolut was purchased by Pernod Ricard. Pernod Ricard is also the U.S. distributor for Stoli.

Tito’s seems to be highly recommended by the commenters here, though.
#63

On April 4th, 2008 at 12:22 pm, behiker said:

#57 - so that’s their pathetic reasoning for this ad. Ok, how much longer until we see an ad featuring Islamic Rage Boy and an image of earth with a big red “Islam” stamped on it?
#64

On April 4th, 2008 at 12:33 pm, pubscout said:

I posted this response to their “explanation.”

Your ad deeply offended me and many Americans who saw it, even those who may not be in Mexico. Were you so naive as to believe that no one outside of Mexico would see it?

But, pray tell, what were the “historical perspectives” you used to develop this inflammatory and ill-considered ad? They seem to be at odds with most accepted history treatises on the subject.

Would your company fictitiously eradicate the state of Israel in order to increase sales in neighboring countries? Would you eliminate Finland to increase the Russian market?

My point is clear, and what makes the situation worse is that your official explanation doesn’t apologize, it justifies.

Just as your ad justifies me and millions of other offended Americans from eschewing your Absolut product in perpetuity.
#65

On April 4th, 2008 at 12:39 pm, rotarymunkey said:

My email message to Mr. Moran was very simple.

“Your US/Mexico border ad was despicable. I will no longer purchase Absolut products.

How’s that for living in an Absolut world?”

I think that clearly lands a body blow!
#66

On April 4th, 2008 at 12:45 pm, rlongenbach said:

pubscout, I sent her an email with a similar tone. How do you think the Mexican population would have liked an ad that showed the Aztec and Mayan empires with the United States to their north? Now that is ideal for some people!

I’m really thinking that they just were too dumb to realize that there is nothing local anymore because of the internet. Even Wal-Mart got hit recently because they tried to collect their workers compensation back from an ex-employee who was injured while on the job because of a third party - she won the lawsuit from the third party, so the workers comp was looking to get the money they paid out back from the lawsuit proceeds. Story in the local paper, gets on the ‘Net…next thing you know Wal-Mart’s dropping the attempt to collect.
#67

On April 4th, 2008 at 12:46 pm, granite said:

It just struck me.

I wonder if the way most of us feel about this stupid ad might not be a teeny bit similar to the way that Greece feels about, and why it objects to, “the former Yugoslav ‘republic’” that for the past dozen years or so has been trying to claim that it should be called “Macedonia”?
#68

On April 4th, 2008 at 12:48 pm, Vic said:

#62

I highly recommend Tito’s. I drink it often.
#69

On April 4th, 2008 at 12:50 pm, alamedaman said:

They got the reaction they wanted out of the ad- pissing a bunch of people off, you people played right into their hands.
Also, is a ad from an awful vodka brand really something to get up in arms about?
#70

On April 4th, 2008 at 12:51 pm, lgm said:

granite said (#28):

people who prove in their posts that they don’t know what they’re talking about.

The information in my post was correct. Follow the link to make sure.

emjem24 said (#51):

You know little of the world (or the border) outside the world of academia.

I know something about Sweden and Finland that you wouldn’t learn in an American classroom.
#71

On April 4th, 2008 at 12:55 pm, ex-expat said:

As a global company, we recognize that people in different parts of the world may lend different perspectives or interpret our ads in a different way than was intended in that market. Obviously, this ad was run in Mexico, and not the US — that ad might have been very different.

If they are a truly “global company”, they would have known how offensive this would be before the ad was even put out. The corporate response is condesending.

How is ‘cover one’s butt’, tranlated into Swedish/French?
#72

On April 4th, 2008 at 1:02 pm, Jiobaobubai said:

I usually drink Scotch, but on the rare occasion I have vodka it’s either Armadale or Chopin that’s been kept in the freezer.

Nice work everyone!!! Let’s keep them running. Maybe start talking to their distributors too and letting them know about it. We can hope they react like the fellow above who owns the bar.
#73

On April 4th, 2008 at 1:06 pm, granite said:

It is known that Sweden had been expansionist centuries ago…way, way before there was such a thing as the do-it-yourself “source” Wikipedia.

Sweden was involved in the 30 years’ war, as well as in wars before and after that.

Say, could we put that “I know something about Sweden and…” to the sing-songy tune 6-year-olds sing, “I know something you don’t know?”

Criminy.
#74

On April 4th, 2008 at 1:13 pm, JohnnyDilznik said:

Hey Dandapania regarding #7 take it easy on Kommifornia. Some of us don’t have a choice and are trying. I would point out your failure in Texas to deal with this problem is ground zero. Kay Bailey-Hutchinson?
#75

On April 4th, 2008 at 1:13 pm, Brent said:

On April 4th, 2008 at 10:46 am, sharinlite said:
Just got off the phone with the “new owner”…Pernod Ricard. The receptionist said they had “just bought Absolut 3 days or so ago”. She also said they had been getting phone calls this morning and that “something” was going or being done.

I just called them about 10 minutes ago and the lady I spoke with told me the same thing. She said they’re getting lots of complaints and she agreed with me that she thought it was over the line.
#76

On April 4th, 2008 at 1:18 pm, ex-expat said:

In the interest of good for the goose, good for the gander, lets see Absolut run an similar ad in Spain, with a map showing how the Iberian Penninsula was divied up while the Moors were there!

Better yet, France as she was during the 13th century!
#77

On April 4th, 2008 at 1:21 pm, Jimmie said:

Geezes Louiezze…get a life folks, this sort of poor bit of humor sure got a rise out of some folks. It is sort of akin to the guy who gets totally outraged when another guy says “ hay I was with your wife last night, she was great.” He knows this is false but is still ready to fight? There has to be a bit of truth in humor, poor or not, to get a reaction. The unfortunate truth here is that If our new “Commander in Chief” orders arms down and surrenders to our enemies…..it would not be to far a stretch to imagine that we would be in need of a friendly Mexico….So why do we want to go to such lengths to make an enemy here? Possibly for the same reason we refuse to develop our own oil. We must spend Billions on our Iron curtain and spend Trillions to insure our enemies can afford nuclear weapons.

One more aside on the Great Fence. In the history of the world no fence or wall has proven effective. Every one of them, viewed historically has been a last pathetic attempt to hold off the end of nation, empire whatever. Some of these fences were effective for a short time only because the builders were willing to kill EVERYONE and ANYONE who approached.

Say what you will but don’t bother telling anyone but each other how dumb I am…I just write these silly little comments, I don’ t look back.

Mexico only had those lands for 20 some years. The US took them by purchace and force of arms. The only way Mexico could “reclame” the “lost lands” is if we are to disinterested.
#78

On April 4th, 2008 at 1:23 pm, granite said:

#77 Jimmie:

Good, interesting post.

Thank you.
#79

On April 4th, 2008 at 1:24 pm, emjem24 said:

lgm said:

I know something about Sweden and Finland that you wouldn’t learn in an American classroom.

Like what? You’re not specific enough. Have you been there? Are you of Swedish/Finish extraction or who have friends who are from these two countries?

I’ve learned lots of things about Spain that one wouldn’t find in an American classroom as well. I’ve actually lived in the country (along with visiting many other European countries) but I’m not inserting anything about another country (or my knowledge of the country) into this thread. That is your excuse.

Education doesn’t stop at the classroom door. It continues through one’s life. Unfortunately, your inclusion of another country’s expansionist ways is moral relativism at its finest. It’s dishonest and convenient. Your inclusion of Sweden and its history with Finland leads me to ask the following questions:

1. Are you suggestion that American expanded into Mexico and now that the Southwest is part of our country, it should be given back to Mexico?

2. Is Mexico entitled to the Southwest? Didn’t they sell it and didn’t we fight over Texas and our rights to it?

If find it a bit awkward on your part that you think one country’s experiences trying to take over another country should be some argument for the illegal immigration taking place now. I’m sure La Raza would love you as a member.
#80

On April 4th, 2008 at 1:30 pm, Thomas said:

Good lord, are people here still responding to the troll lgm?
#81

On April 4th, 2008 at 1:32 pm, AlohaGuy said:

The “you stole our land” mantra is unmitigated bullshit. Get your history straight before you try to appeal to the “La Raza” anarchists and illegal aliens.

In a perfect world, US Code Title 8 would be enforced, our borders would be secured and montiored properly, and all of the illegals in this country would be deported.

sfcmac you rock.
#82

On April 4th, 2008 at 1:38 pm, Dumpling said:

Ohhhhhhhhhh, man. I am sooooooooo sick of this crap. I can’t believe this ad. APPALLING. DISGUSTING. Would any other nation tolerate this outrage?? Why isn’t this even being mentioned outside of this blog? I heard nothing of this on the news, on CNN, nowhere! Why are all Americans not appalled by this? Do Americans have no self-respect??

It’s not enough that 20 million Mexicans have invaded our country, are fighting our agents at our borders, are disregarding our immigration laws, are sucking the very life out of our healthcare system, are demanding “rights” that they have no legal entitlement to, have marched in our city streets waving their Mexican flags, are using our country to have anchor babies…and now, they invision a world where our entire western border states are absorbed back into Mexico?? Why do we tolerate this??

Furious!
#83

On April 4th, 2008 at 1:39 pm, emjem24 said:

Thomas said: #80

Guilty, I’m afraid. Where’s the Troll Feeders Anonymous out there when you need one?
#84

On April 4th, 2008 at 1:41 pm, Cosmo said:

Is it any surprise that Teran also has as a client Jumex?

It’s two ethnic slurs in one can!

Coming soon, “Absolut Iberia” with the caliphate of Cordoba covering the peninsula, ca. 715. Wow. So “disruptive.” Such a departure from conventional ideas. So 8th century.
#85

On April 4th, 2008 at 1:41 pm, Dumpling said:

Let the idiots have the whole freakin Southwest. They think it’s the land of milk and honey, but once it falls under the Mexican gov’t, it will be the same cesspool of poverty and corruption they have now.

Exactly. I couldn’t agree more.
#86

On April 4th, 2008 at 1:42 pm, JHSII said:

Jimmie #77 wrote:

We must spend Billions on our Iron curtain

This alone destroys any credibility you might have had.
#87

On April 4th, 2008 at 1:53 pm, Barry F. said:

On April 4th, 2008 at 1:30 pm, Thomas said:

Good lord, are people here still responding to the troll lgm?

On April 4th, 2008 at 1:39 pm, emjem24 said:

Thomas said: #80

Guilty, I’m afraid. Where’s the Troll Feeders Anonymous out there when you need one?

Hi. My name’s Barry and…..I’m… a… Troll Feeder….. There! I said it.
#88

On April 4th, 2008 at 1:55 pm, granite said:

Guess I gotta raise my hand, too.
…Guilty as charged.
#89

On April 4th, 2008 at 2:02 pm, Barry F. said:

We’ve all said, “Don’t feed the trolls!” But, the temptation is so great.
#90

On April 4th, 2008 at 2:10 pm, cpodug said:

Agreed - it’s kinda like scratching where it itches
#91

On April 4th, 2008 at 2:13 pm, Barry F. said:

Yeah. Good analogy - “scratching where it itches”!
#92

On April 4th, 2008 at 2:14 pm, jwalker said:

If this ad is running in Mexico…why is “In an Absolute World” written in English?
#93

On April 4th, 2008 at 2:32 pm, emjem24 said:

granite/Barry F.:

Is there a “12 step program?” Once you’ve reached the 12th step, do you get a certificate? What happens if you have “lack of sobriety” periods? Do you have to repeat the 12 steps?

And before someone marches in and says, I’m making fun of AA, I’m just using their program as a model, okay?
#94

On April 4th, 2008 at 2:32 pm, Barry F. said:

On April 4th, 2008 at 2:14 pm, jwalker said:

If this ad is running in Mexico…why is “In an Absolute World” written in English?

Bingo!
#95

On April 4th, 2008 at 2:41 pm, Barry F. said:

On April 4th, 2008 at 2:32 pm, emjem24 said:

granite/Barry F.:

Is there a “12 step program?” Once you’ve reached the 12th step, do you get a certificate? What happens if you have “lack of sobriety” periods? Do you have to repeat the 12 steps?

And before someone marches in and says, I’m making fun of AA, I’m just using their program as a model, okay?

It’s a two-step process…

Step 1: Own up to it.

Step 2: Keep coming back often

Why only those two steps? Because, baiting trolls is too fun to give up outright, you can’t give it up entirely.
#96

On April 4th, 2008 at 2:43 pm, cpodug said:

Barry - let me give you a bit of advice here - just remember when you’re trying to engage in a battle of wits with a troll, it’s not nice to pick on an unarmed man.
#97

On April 4th, 2008 at 2:47 pm, granite said:

#92 On April 4th, 2008 at 2:14 pm, jwalker said:

“If this ad is running in Mexico…why is “In an Absolute World” written in English?”

Excellent observation!!!
#98

On April 4th, 2008 at 2:51 pm, LarryD said:

I know that the PLO has had maps like the Palestinian one, they probably still do.

Maybe someone should research the kind of maps that would have resulted had the South won the Civil War. There was no little talk about expanding all the way down to the tip of South America. And they had economic incentive to, the plantation system exhausted the soil.
#99

On April 4th, 2008 at 2:54 pm, Barry F. said:

On April 4th, 2008 at 2:43 pm, cpodug said:

Barry - let me give you a bit of advice here - just remember when you’re trying to engage in a battle of wits with a troll, it’s not nice to pick on an unarmed man.

They’re like pesky mosquitos. They keep biting and, eventually, they’re going to get squashed. It’s like that whole “itch” thing earlier.