The ASA considered whether the models in four ads on Zara’s website appeared unhealthily thin. It deemed two ads irresponsible on that basis, while finding no breach in the other two. This ruling shows that “unhealthily thin” is about representation within an ad, not just a model’s size.
The government makes the Advertising (Less Healthy Food and Drink) (Brand Advertising Exemption) Regulations 2025, which provide clarity on the “brand advertising” exemption to new HFSS TV and online ad restrictions.
CAP reiterates that health claims for foods are only permitted if they are authorised, with recent ASA rulings underscoring the point.
The government has published its consultation on regulations to exempt brand advertising from restrictions on ads for less healthy food and drink on TV and online and the ASA has asked CAP to pause its current consultation on the implementation rules and guidance. Additionally, the ASA has announced that it will not enforce the new rules until 5 January 2026. Gregory Barton and Anna Matsiienko report.
The ASA has ruled against Viagogo’s claim that “over half the events listed on Viagogo had tickets selling below face value,” finding it misleading. Gregory Barton and Thuvaraka Balamurali reports.
The ASA, MHRA and GPhC issue a reminder to advertisers on the rules around promoting weight-loss prescription-only medicines. Melissa Woodfield reports.
The ASA’s latest report sheds light on public concerns about advertising, focusing on context, portrayal and misleadingness. Alex Lowe reports.
ASA finds unsatisfactory rates of influencer ad disclosure on social media and provides recommendations on how to comply with the rules.
IAB UK publishes a report exploring advertising and marketing trends in the lead up to 2030 and beyond. Louisa Morrison and Anna Matsiienko report.
ASA research highlights the importance of understanding youth engagement with celebrities to better protect children from gambling ads. Millie Bird reports.
CAP and BCAP codes have been amended following the UCPs provisions in the DMCCA coming into force on 6 April 2025. Josephine O’Dowd reports.
