The Children’s Advertising Review Unit (CARU) has recommended that the popular Build-A-Bear Workshop modify or discontinue price advertising claims, which the self-regulatory group says may confuse children.
CARU objected to a commercial, which the organization said it spotted through its own monitoring of advertising directed to children, that showed a child at a Build-A-Bear store choosing a stuffed monkey, clothing and accessories. The announcer stated, “You can make a new furry friend starting at $10 and continue the adventure at Buildabear.com.” Though the bear initially appeared unclothed, and a large video disclosure stated that animals start at $10, the bear later was shown to be wearing a shirt, shorts, sunglasses and sneakers.
“CARU concluded that a child could reasonably believe that any fully clothed and accessorized animal would cost $10, although the monkey depicted cost $18 and outfitting the animal similar to the one depicted would cost approximately $40,” the organization stated.
The advertiser noted that the commercial in question had run its course, but said it would consider CARU’s concerns in future advertising.
Read about CARU’s decision at caru.org.