Epstein case cited as Teazers advert banned

Complaint filed which claimed billboard was 'offensive, highly suggestive'

- ZELDA VENTER

WOMEN cannot be depicted as a benefit or prop of wealth or power, the Advertising Regulatory Board (ARB) said in banning an advertisement featuring a chief executive officer (CEO) surrounded by women, stating “the CEO's second boardroom”.

This follows a complaint filed against Teazers' billboard, which claimed the advertisement was “offensive, highly suggestive, giving the wrong message about CEOs, promoting infidelity, giving the message that this is how CEOs behave”.

According to the complainant, CEOs - being leaders - have a responsibility to be role models. “In a society where fraud and corruption are rife, this is a further nail in that coffin,” the complaint read.

Teazers, in defending the billboard, pointed out that its advertisement contains no nudity, partial nudity, nor explicit or exploitative imagery. It stated that the purpose of the advertisement was to convey sophistication, confidence, and an aspirational lifestyle, which, it said, were themes commonly found in luxury, sport, and fashion advertising.