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William Hill advert linked wagering to sexual success
bet9ja.com
15 May 2019

An advert for a wagering firm seen on the yohaig code dating app Tinder has actually been banned for linking betting to sexual success.
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The ad for William Hill, which was sent out as a message to users, read: "Stuck in the good friend zone? You won't be for much longer if you use this promotion code Cheltenham [horse racing] complimentary bet deal."
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It was followed by a link to download the William Hill app.

But the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) stated it should not appear again in its current type.

It said that, according to advertising rules, betting advertisements should not connect betting to "seduction, sexual success or improved beauty".

"We thought about that the text ... suggested that those who bet would be most likely to establish a relationship into a sexual relationship and therefore connected gaming with sexual success," it stated.

William Hill initially protected the March advert after a consumer grumbled.

The company said clients who registered would "enter into a relationship with William Hill", and the advert was supposed to relate this promotion code to the nature of business they were promoting on - Tinder.

It stated it was not its intent to connect betting to sexual success.

However, upon reflection it agreed the ad could have been misinterpreted and took it down willingly.
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William Hill said: "We take on board what the ASA have actually stated about this promotion code specific advert and have eliminated it from blood circulation."
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Tinder meanwhile stated it had reviewed the yohaig code advertisement before publishing it, it was not socially reckless, offensive or targeting minors.

'Speechless'

Campaigners have been calling for harder guideline of gambling advertising.
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One, the Bishop of St Albans, Dr Alan Smith, said he was "left speechless" by ads like William Hill's.
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"The gambling industry's method to self-regulation appears farcical as more of these adverts are exposed. I fear some betting firms are now operating under a 'do not get captured' mentality.

"The ASA's robust action ought to be a wake-up call to the market."

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