If you thought Nick Xenaphon and Andrew Wilkie already had enough to complain about with regard to gambling advertising, just wait until Barni Evans gets his feet wet.
Barni Evans is the lead marketer for Iasbet and Sportsbet’s parent company, Irish bookmaker Paddy Power. Or should we say – he was!
Evans has left his role with Paddy Power to take up the role of Marketing Director for both Iasbet and Sportsbet.
While the dual role might be daunting to some, one thing is assured; he will make his presence known.
Evans is famous for masterminding one of 2010′s most complained about adverts.
Marketing Magazine UK’s John Reynolds takes up the story:
As marketing director, he oversaw several high-profile campaigns, including 2010′s most-complained-about TV spot, featuring blind footballers apparently kicking a cat.
More recently, the bookmaker used glamour model Imogen Thomas in its ads, following her alleged affair with Manchester United star Ryan Giggs, to coincide with this year’s Champions League final.
The bookmaker also erected a 270ft Hollywood-style promotional sign overlooking Celtic Manor, the venue for last year’s Ryder Cup in Wales, leading the local council to serve it with an injunction.
Paddy Power is now set to feature model Florence Brudenell-Bruce, linked to Prince Harry, in a forthcoming TV ad. Brudenell-Bruce has already starred in previous comedic TV ads for the brand.
As reported here Sportsbet was effectively acquire by Paddy Power earlier this year, and had already acquired Iasbet in a prior deal.
With gambling advertising a very hot topic on the political and news scenes, Evans’ style of marketing is sure to attract immediate attention.
Want to know what all the fuss is about?
Check out the infamous Paddy Power soccer ad:
Paddy Power Ad