If you haven’t already heard, the Fyre Festival was an epic failure that is still smoldering. The music festival promised the “unparalleled best” experience on a private island in the Bahamas, but, instead of arriving to high-end accommodations, ticketholders landed at a tent city with scarce food or comfort. “We thought we were ready, but then everyone arrived,” said a letter explaining the events on the Fyre Festival website.
Now that festival goers have experienced (or skipped) the disaster, there are three lawsuits. What’s of note is that they’re not just against the organizers. They’re going after influencers, too — “the Fyre Tribe” of social media lifestyle marketers.
For influencers and the companies that rely on them, the continuing problem is not disclosing payment or other benefit in exchange for the promotion, which the Federal Trade Commision (FTC) has been tightening down on. Cases have been brought against companies, and the FTC has been sending letters to influencers.
To protect your brand, following the FTC’s Advertising and Marketing guidelines is a very good thing.
Of course if you’d like an expert’s hand in building and managing your grassroots efforts and/or events, Hanser & Associates can help. Call us at 515-224-1086 to start the conversation.