KFC is at it again. In their latest marketing stunt, they’ve offered $11,000 to a baby named “Harland” after the brand’s founder and mascot, Colonel Harland Sanders. The catch? The baby has to also be born on the Colonel’s birthday, September 9th.
The $11,000 prize is inspired by KFC’s 11 herbs and spices, and is intended for little Harland’s college education. The promotion has had mixed reactions across the internet, with The Atlantic calling it “The most dystopian marketing stunt ever,” and various individuals on Twitter chiming in with their opinions:
I actually really like that name. I'd totally do it !!
— Alison (@AliLaura) August 30, 2018
I can't wait to see how many people whore out their kids for $11,000 18 years from now (which will be worth way much less by then)….. Anyone who does this should be ashamed of themselves and probably aren't fit to be parents.
— Greg Bonfey (@gmb1326) August 30, 2018
Andrea Zahumensky, KFC U.S. chief marketing officer, said in KFC’s official statement:
Even though vintage names are making a comeback, our iconic founder’s name was dwindling in popularity, and we couldn’t just stand idly by and let that happen. We hope that this birthday celebration honors the Colonel and encourages the next generation of people aspiring to live the American dream.
KFC is skilled at generating buzz for wacky advertising promotions, and this campaign is no different. But do you think KFC’s gone too far with this one? Or do you want to name your child Harland for a chance at winning $11,000? We’ll see if anyone actually takes the bait. Even if they don’t, the promotion has certainly generated a lot of attention for KFC.