Introduction
Joshing Cocktails is committed to maintaining transparency and honesty in all our marketing efforts. To comply with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) guidelines, we have established the following policy for endorsers who promote our products on social media. This policy ensures that all endorsements are clear, truthful, and not misleading.
Disclosure Requirements
1. Material Connection Disclosure:
- If you have a material connection with Joshing Cocktails (e.g., you are paid, receive free products, or have a personal relationship with the brand), you must disclose this connection in your posts.
- Use clear and unambiguous language to disclose your relationship. Acceptable disclosures include phrases like “#ad,” “#sponsored,” or “#joshingambassador.”
2. Placement and Visibility:
- Disclosures should be placed in a way that is hard to miss. They should be in the same language as the endorsement and appear at the beginning of the post or within the first three lines.
- Avoid using vague terms like “sp,” “spon,” or “collab.” Do not rely solely on platform disclosure tools; use them in addition to your own clear disclosures.
3. Consistency Across Platforms:Ensure that disclosures are consistent across all social media platforms. Whether you are posting on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, or any other platform, the disclosure must be clear and conspicuous.
4. International Posts:
If you are posting from abroad, remember that U.S. law applies if it’s reasonably foreseeable that the post will affect U.S. consumers. Be aware of and comply with any additional foreign laws that may apply.
Best Practices for Alcohol Advertising
1. Age Restrictions:
- Ensure that your audience is of legal drinking age. Use age-gating tools where available to restrict access to your content to those 21 and older.
2. Responsible Drinking Messages:
- Include messages that promote responsible drinking. For example, “Enjoy Joshing Cocktails Responsibly” "Sip with Care" or “Please Drink Responsibly.”
3. Avoid Misleading Claims:
- Do not make health claims or suggest that alcohol consumption can improve physical or mental abilities. Avoid implying that drinking alcohol is necessary for social acceptance or success.
4. Imagery and Content:
- Use imagery that reflects responsible drinking. Avoid showing excessive consumption or portraying drinking in a negative light.
Sample Social Media Posts
Instagram Post
Enjoying a refreshing @drinkjoshing cocktail by the pool! #joshingcocktails #ad #joshingambassador
Twitter Post
Just tried the new @drinkjoshing Unicorn Tale! Perfect for a sunny day. #joshingcocktails #sponsored #joshingambassador
Facebook Post
Loving my new @drinkjoshing cocktail kit! Perfect for making delicious drinks at home. #joshingcocktails #ad #joshingambassador
Instagram Story
Swipe up to see my favorite @drinkjoshing recipes! 🍸 #joshingcocktails #sponsored #joshingambassador #joshingaibartendor
Resources for Endorsers
- FTC’s Disclosures 101 for Social Media Influencers: FTC Guidelines
By following these guidelines, endorsers can help maintain the integrity and trustworthiness of Joshing Cocktails' brand while complying with legal requirements.