Gugu Myeni

Insurance company Santam has suprisingly responded positively to a spoof  made by fast food chain Nandos in their lastest ad.

Nandos known for its controversial advertising, which has landed them in hot water a couple of times before, was probably not expecting Santam's unusual yet witty come back.

Actor Ben kingsley, featured in Santam's original ad where he addresses audiences on insurance,  has given Nandos a challenege to deliver food to a Johannesburg children's home by 4pm on Thursday.

The spoof advert by Nandos features a similar set up as the santam advert, with a local actor speaking to an audience on the fast food chains meals.

Santam  was applauded by Twitter users who called the insurance company's response as "genius."

@MinnieDlamini said: Ok SANTAM's response does it for me!!! Done!!!

While others praised both company's for their brilliant competitive advertising.

@KateWolters said: "Aaah, Santam vs Nandos. Nicely played boys --> Santam. Back at ya"

@ruvanderMerwe said: Don't you just love clever advertising? Nandos vs Santam

‏@prgeek said Nandos vs Santam: "Now *this* is how you do viral video marketing"

@topleftdesign: "MUST Watch - advertising at it's finest - Nandos vs Santam – Brilliant!!

Nandos has responded to the challenge promising to deliver meals to the children's home once a month for a year.

Well that's one way of mixing competitive advertising and giving back to the community.

gugum@thenewage.co.za