“But it’s not fair,” cries my son with tears in his eyes.

A big fan of yogurt, he most enjoys yogurt in tubes, which are often accompanied by secret messages, codes and/or cartoon characters. This time, it was a contest. You’re probably familiar with these, the ‘get online, check your code, and see if you’ve won’ contest.

We did go online. And there, on the front page, was the statement that hit my son hard – Must be between the ages of 8-18 to participate.

“So,” he proclaims, “do not buy any more GoGurt until I am 8 years old.”

“Mommy, tell them.”

So I did, by email, via the Yoplait web site. I am proud of my son. His feelings were hurt, and he took a stand.

My note and General Mills’ response are below. A lame response in my opinion. Not even a token coupon to make a young, loyal customer feel a little better.

My Original Message:

My son asked me to contact your company. He, age 5, is very disappointed (in tears) that he cannot participate in your Gogurt promotion. Although there is probably legal or other reasons why the contest is only open to those 8-18, he has asked us to stop buying Gogurt until he is 8, although he has been a loyal customer. Thank you for your time.

Response:

Thank you for contacting General Mills regarding GoGurt Kids Choice Awards VIP Access sweepstakes. The rules for this offer are on the form and in order to participate all the rules must be adhered to. We appreciate the time you have taken to share your comments. The information you provided will be carefully reviewed with other members of the product team.

We hope you continue to enjoy our products and promotions.

I think they missed the point. I wasn’t asking to participate against the rules. I was merely letting them know they had alienated a member of their consumer base. And, how can we continue to enjoy their products and promotions, when we can’t participate in their promotion in the first place?

Karen
www.KarenLCox.com