Hmm… this bus ad seems to cross the line:
What a provocative ad by Fitness First in Rotterdam: a bus seat with a built-in scale that displays the weight of the person sitting there, making their weight visible to other passengers.
Take-aways:
For marketers in tech/operations: the mechanism matters – adding sensor + public display creates interactivity, but you’ll want to consider user consent, backlash risk, and long-term brand impact.
It’s a bold stunt that uses public embarrassment to push gym membership – playing on psychology rather than just benefits.
It raises questions about ethics and effectiveness: making someone’s weight public might grab attention, but could also alienate or shame people.
Bus Ad Shames You Into Joining a Gym by Showing Everyone Your Weight
