Costa Coffee ad banned for dissing avocados

AN Costa Coffee encouraging customers to purchase a bacon roll instead of avocados has been banned.

The radio ad featured a voiceover which stated there was “a great deal on ripen-at-home avocados” however they will only “be ready to eat for about 10 minutes, then they’ll go off”.

The advert urged for people to choose the “better deal” of a roll or egg muffin.

Two listeners complained that the ad, which aired in June, discouraged people from opting for fresh fruit.

The advertising watchdog agreed with the complaints and upheld them.

Costa said its ad played on the “frustration and unpredictability of the avocado”.

The chain claimed it was not suggesting that listeners must choose between the two breakfast options, but that it was instead telling people about its promotional offer.