DISCLAIMER: Strong language and adult humour. So don’t read this post if it offends you. This disclaimer is as good as the age warning notification on adult sites. Does it stop anyone? I think not.

So why is this post filled with strong language and adult humour? Do read on…

Globalisation has long since transitioned from buzzword to norm. (MBA type gyaan to continue) Many companies are now selling products across countries – catering to that many more customers and that many more cultures.  So it becomes that much more important to ensure that the product and brand are inclusive and not exclusive (by which companies include as many customers rather than exclude them. This holds true for even novelty products).

Often MNCs tend to mould and re-purpose their brand and product for different markets. International fast food chains, for example, have made Indian modifications to their menu. It is often assumed that many companies have market centric consultants and support groups to ensure that any and every cultural sensibilities are addressed. Take for example, the furore that surrounded Coca Cola’s Arabic logo. So much so that the company has a page for it.

Now, let’s look at Skoda. Personally, I like the company. Their cars are good and they are a pleasure to drive. So, why did they name one of their cars Laura? Especially considering how it sounds in Hindi. Call it juvenile, but it’s an obvious blunder for me. Goes without saying – I will never buy the car (if I could afford it). The reason – lame jokes about the car.

SKODA LAURA JOKES

Have you seen my Laura?

Beers, friends and a juvenile thought – how many jokes can be made about Laura. Here goes:

Friend -” I am buying a Laura”. Me -”Black Laura or White Laura?”

“My girlfriend likes my Laura”

“It’s not my Laura, it’s my Dad’s”

“I don’t let anyone under my Laura…except my mechanic”

“I get a guy to clean my Laura everyday”

“I put a cover on my Laura”

“I barely squeezed my Laura through the gap”

“My Laura can accommodate four people”

“I take my Laura out for a spin every night”

“My Laura is not working anymore”

[Add] Every boss is like a Skoda – either they are Superb or a Laura.

[Add] My Laura is pulling to the right

I am sure I have cracked better ones, will add them as I remember. If you think of anymore do comment.

On a side note, Niki Lauda happens to be a formula one racer. Probably the perfect brand ambassador for Laura. Unfortunately, during negotiations he acted like a dick with Skoda management.