ARGENTINA: Coke denies plagiarism claim

By just-drinks.com editorial team | 4 January 2007

The Coca-Cola Co. has been accused of copying a music video made by an unsigned UK band for a Coke Light advertisement in Argentina.

Fans alerted the group Seven Seconds of Love to an advert aired by the soft drinks firm in the South American country, which they felt had similarities to a music video they produced in 2005, called Ninja.

Coca-Cola de Argentina said yesterday ( 3 January) that it was assured by the advertising agency involved, Santo Buenos Aires, that each element of the piece in question was original.

"We have acted in good faith when retaining the agency and deciding to air the TVC [television commercial]. Therefore, we are surprised by the alleged claim and deeply regret being associated to this unusual and unexpected debate."

The seven-member group is not expected to pursue the case further with either Coke or the Argentinean agency, for financial reasons.

Sectors: Soft drinks

Companies: Coke, Coca-Cola Co