The huge problem with this 'clever' advertising tactic

Although it's been described as 'creative', it's stopping drivers for all the wrong reasons.

Businesses use all kinds of tactics to promote their work. Some use social media, others might use billboards, many even television ads.

To stand out from the crowd, though, you’ve got to get creative. However one Sydney business is now under the pump for allegedly taking it too far.

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Image: Reddit.

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“Your caffeine limit has been checked”

A Sydney local has taken to Reddit after spotting a sign for a coffee shop in Berala.

The sign is sitting on the side of the road, and features blue and white checkers - mimicking police branding.

“Your caffeine limit has been checked,” it reads.

“Turn left now.”

The poster pointed out the sign, and complimented its creativity.

“Spotted today on Park Rd Berala. Clever, very clever!” they said.

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“That’s actually pretty good!”

The majority of commenters on the post were supportive of the idea, commending the business on their efforts.

“Ngl, that's actually pretty good cos usually that is a speed trap,” one person said.

“There is a joint in Alexandria that uses a yellow and black sign like this saying ‘pork rolls’ with an arrow. It’s great,” another added.

“DONuT, DRINK & DRIVE,” said a third.

“All they need now is a coffee camera held by some dude in brown vis directing them to turn in,” another joked.

“Just waiting for some party pooper to find a reason to ban this cleverness…” said another person.

“It’s illegal!”

And, it seems it didn’t take long for someone to do just that.

Multiple commenters on the post said that this form of advertising was not only annoying for drivers, but is also potentially illegal.

“It's illegal advertising. Snap send solve to your local council,” one commenter said.

"There are restrictions on the use of the ‘police corporate branding’. If that sign is seen by a cop having a bad day I'd hate to be that business,” another commenter agreed, linking NSW Police’s corporate branding policy.

"Yep, you're right,” the original poster responded.

“While I only had a very brief review of the document, it explicitly mentions the chequered band, and is read to include any colour variations of the chequered band and not just blue & white... Caught my eye, despite having to stop at the traffic lights.”

Originally published as The huge problem with this 'clever' advertising tactic