BP Continues Stealth Public Relations During Its Crisis @bp_america

"According to a leaked internal message, initially obtained by industry newsletter Oil Express, from BP corporate to its marketers in the field, including some gas stations, the company instructed its affiliates not to partake in any new independent advertising that could disrupt the company's efforts to paint itself as humble and helpful. "During this sensitive time, we hope you will join us in reviewing marketing initiatives in light of the current situation, and place additional focus on supporting the BP brand by primarily connecting with consumers on BP premises and in local communities," company officials wrote to affiliates. They advised creating "a word-of-mouth network that can help diffuse or deflect negative commentary and help support the BP brand." Usually, the London-based company pays 50 percent of all local advertising costs, but if a partner uses prepackaged advertising directly from London, the company will cover 100 percent of the costs."

rest at http://blog.newsweek.com/blogs/wealthofnations/archive/2010/05/19/bp-continues-stealth-public-relations-during-its-crisis.aspx