A Ford dealership in Ala., stopped its promotion for “God, Guns, and Freedom” after Ford Motor Co. reportedly issued a statement requesting the business refrain from the gun giveaway.
Chatom Ford released a statement saying, “We were running a promotion celebrating this country’s independence. [Ford Motor Co.] manufacture(s) the products we are franchised to sell, so we are complying with their request.”
Created to celebrate Independence Day, the original marketing campaign called for giveaways of a 12-gauge shotgun, American flag, and King James Bible promoting American pride and heritage in the community. The dealership had partnered with certified firearm dealers in Alabama and Mississippi to provide the free guns.
Chatom Ford is offering a new promotion. Koby Palmer, general manager, and two other employees, can be seen in a current video on Facebook rebranding the campaign as “God and Glory.” Everyone who comes into the dealership to purchase “a new, pre-owned or certified pre-owned car, truck or SUV” will receive the Bible, the flag, and a $200 certificate to spend. The promotion will run through the end of July.
Palmer stated the purpose of the original promotion was not to make political statements. “We talked about what our community is about, and what are things they stand for. It’s a safe community. They’re very proud of their country and almost everybody here likes to hunt.”
