1986 Advertising Boycott
Hustler Magazine's "Ad Block"
The "Ad Block" advertising boycott occurred in 1986, when several major advertisers pulled their ads from Hustler after pressure from parent boards uneasy about being associated with such explicit content. Flynt retaliated by publishing an "Ad Block" spread — mocking the boycotting companies with satirical ads and editorial commentary, daring them to come back. This stunt generated headlines and forced some firms to quietly return, fearing the free‐publicity loss outweighed their moral stance. It exemplified Hustler's razor‐sharp guerrilla marketing, turning a corporate snub into a consumer spectacle and keeping the controversy—and sales—flowing.
First, what were the reasons behind the 1986 advertising boycott? The main reason was that some companies objected to their products appearing alongside Hustler's sexually explicit material. This concern stemmed from a belief that such images could damage their reputation and erode public confidence in their brand. Additionally, religious groups expressed disapproval of Hustler's content, pressuring companies to pull their support. Despite these concerns, some businesses stood firm in their decision not to participate.
What did Hustler do in response to the boycott? Flynt published an "Ad Block" spread featuring satirical ads for fictional products like "Ford Pussycars," which promised drivers a "smooth ride with no bumps." He also criticized the companies for censorship and urged readers to write letters supporting his magazine. These tactics garnered widespread attention, putting Hustler at the center of media coverage and helping it regain lost revenue through subscriptions and sales.
How successful was this strategy? While it's difficult to quantify exactly how much revenue Hustler gained from the "Ad Block," there is evidence that it helped restore the company's financial stability. In the months following the boycott, circulation increased by nearly 50%, while subscription rates doubled. Many of the companies who pulled their ads returned quietly over time. By turning a corporate snub into a consumer spectacle, Hustler showed the power of guerrilla marketing and proved that controversy can sometimes be beneficial for brands willing to take risks.