Ronald McDonald has been the face for the popular McDonald’s restaurant chain for years – but now he’s taking a bold new step into social media.
The iconic figure debuted his new look on Twitter this week, doing away with his classic clown duds in favor of a more contemporary jacket-and-jeans combo, although still with his trademark colors. He’s also taking a new approach to social media, urging customers to use the hashtag #ronaldmcdonald when it comes to his new appearance.
Although Ronald won’t have his own Twitter handle, McDonald’s will post photos and videos of him using its existing social media accounts, as well as the hashtag. He’ll also be making his appearance in new TV ads later this year.
“His iconic big red shoes will remain the same,” said McDonald’s in a statement.
“Selfies…here I come! It’s a big world and now, wherever I go and whatever I do…I’m ready to show how fun can make great things happen,” said the fictional clown in the same statement.
After pressure from a group called Corporate Accountability to retire Ronald McDonald in regards to bad marketing for children, CEO Don Thompson believes that the mascot can do great things with social media.
“Ronald is not a bad guy – he’s about fun, he’s a clown. So I’d ask all you to let your kids have fun too,” said Thompson.
Source: Dallas News
