In recent years, social media influencers often leverage their online presence to secure free products or services in exchange for exposure on their platforms. However, this practice has sparked controversy, with many arguing that it devalues the work of small businesses and creators. A restaurant tells influencer to ‘get the f**k out’ after she asked to pay with ‘exposure’.
One such incident unfolded at Lucky Ramen, a popular restaurant in Manchester, UK. The establishment found itself in the spotlight after a social media influencer attempted to secure a free meal in exchange for promoting the restaurant on her Instagram account.
Lucky Ramen conversation with influencer The eatery clarified that it had been DM'd by the influencer on Instagram, requesting to "collab", that is, to get a free brunch in return for a "post on their story and page." How fortunate is Ramen Lucky?
The restaurant's stunned employees posted the video on social media, expressing their gratitude for paying customers even more, despite being "thrilled she appreciates our food."
In a move that garnered widespread attention online, Lucky Ramen restaurant tells influencer to ‘get the f**k out’ after she asked to pay with ‘exposure’, sharing screenshots of the conversation and exposing her attempt to solicit freebies. The restaurant's management expressed frustration with the growing trend of influencers expecting complimentary services without offering fair compensation in return.
After her attempt to sell their meal to her followers was rejected, she responded with an even more outrageous post, claiming that the restaurant's 'arrogance makes her ill' and that their food was 'bang out of order'.
A portion of it said:
"HOW DARE YOU try and expose us like that??? So you think people like us don't deserve to eat for FREE??? Just in case you didn't realise, we are doing our best to help and promote you for FREEE!!!
Which makes me think that this specific social media celebrity doesn't understand that her services aren't actually "free", it would still cost the restaurant a few pounds to feed her and her boyfriend.
Lucky Ramen appears to have taken a similar stand, as evidenced by another harsh Instagram post it made criticizing the woman, labeling her a "angry influencer," along with a fictitious apology for "trying to make a living and s**t."
The incident sparked a heated debate on social media, with many users applauding Lucky Ramen for taking a stand against influencer entitlement. The restaurant's actions resonated with small business owners and content creators who have long struggled with the pressure to provide free products or services in exchange for exposure.
Some criticized the influencer for her entitled behavior, highlighting the importance of supporting local businesses and respecting their value. Others pointed out the ethical implications of expecting freebies in exchange for social media promotion, arguing that it perpetuates a culture of exploitation.
In response to the backlash, the influencer took to her own social media accounts to defend her actions, claiming that she was merely seeking to collaborate with the restaurant. However, her explanation failed to appease critics who viewed her behavior as emblematic of a larger issue within the influencer industry.
Lucky Ramen conversation with influencer screenshot Restaurant tells influencer to ‘get the f**k out’ after she asked to pay with ‘exposure’. As the debate surrounding influencer culture continues to evolve, incidents like the one involving Lucky Ramen underscore the importance of maintaining ethical standards and valuing the contributions of businesses in the digital age.