Company Ending Kobe Endorsement

AP ^ | August 4, 2003

[presidio9]

The maker of Nutella chocolate spread said Monday it is phasing out endorsements from Kobe Bryant in part because of the sexual assault charge against the NBA superstar.

Ferrero, an Italian company with U.S. headquarters in Somerset, N.J., said its contract with the Los Angeles Lakers guard expires in January.

"Marketing plans established earlier this year did not contemplate a contract renewal," the company said in a statement. "In keeping with this decision, and considering the recent developments, Kobe's image on Nutella labels and promotional material is being phased out."

[bootyist-monk]

Looks like the "Bust a Nutella" campaign is off, then.

[ffusco]

I hear a Japanese Beef producer is interested....

[neutrino]

Excellent! Nutella is a good product...I'd prefer not to feel obligated to avoid it.

[DoctorHydrocal]

Kobe guilty or not guilty? Watch how the smart money bets.

[joesnuffy]

Maybe that Kentucky Jelly Company will pick him up

[ffusco]

Quick, someone call Jimmy the Greek! Is he still alive?

[Age of Reason]

At the least, he has been classless enough to publicly dishonor his wife.

With all his money, he could have been a little more careful in his indiscretions.

[Izzy Dunne]

With all his money, he could have been a little more careful in his indiscretions.

Sorry, but dollars won't buy you sense.

[Chantal]

At the least, he has been classless enough to publicly dishonor his wife.

and his daughter....one day she'll grow up and learn what
he did...another life ruined.

[Age of Reason]

Sorry, but dollars won't buy you sense.

Maybe.

But I still have more sense than to work hard all day, and then spend my off time worshiping some guy because he gets paid millions to bounce a ball around.