Is This A Massive Typo?

The latest McDonald’s advertisement has been driving me mad. Looks like a massive typo to me…

I can’t help but notice that the billboard advert was pulled down almost immediately…. and if you do a google search the ad doesn’t come up. Maybe McD have realised and are removing them?

I do a lot of proof reading for work, so it’s hard to switch off the pedant in me. Am I over reacting or would you agree?

21st July 2011

The reply from McDonalds – it is apparently ‘an endearing play on words’…

I am contacting you regarding your recent e-mail addressed to Jill McDonald. I was sorry to learn of concerns and your comments have been forwarded for my attention from the managing director’s office.

I have now had the opportunity to discuss your concerns with our Marketing Department and project lead for the Deli Choices advertising campaign, who was also concerned to learn of your dissatisfaction.

I can advise that the phrasing used on this particular poster is a purposeful play on words.  The line ‘Comes in one-handy’ is intended to be an endearing play of the phrase ‘Comes in handy’.  The idea behind the advertisement‚s copy is that the McDonald’s wrap is convenience food on the go.  It is portable and can be carried around and eaten with one hand whilst the other hand is left free to get on with other things.  The fact that you only need one hand to eat the food gave rise to the idea ‘Comes in one handy’.

For more information on this campaign you may wish to visit our YouTube page: http://www.youtube.com/mcdonaldswraps

Again, I am sorry that you are disappointed with our latest campaign and we have certainly noted your comments, which will be taking into consideration when planning future advertising.

Again, thank you for taking the time and trouble to write us and for bringing your views to our attention.

Yours sincerely