High profile chefs ban influencers from restaurants

High profile chefs and restaurateurs have imposed a ban on reality TV stars and influencers who request free food in exchange for Instagram posts.

However, many reality stars are said to be furious after being shunned, with some claiming the ban is bad for business.

Season 4 MAFS star Nick, who has over 55,000 Instagram followers, said he can reach thousands of people with a single post – which ultimately helps drive business.

Branding expert, Nicole Reaney, of InsideOut Public Relations, agrees, telling Daily Mail Australia that more businesses should embrace influencers and the like rather than banning them.

‘Influencer marketing continues to rise and figures show 71 percent of consumers are more likely to make a purchase based on a social media,’ she said.

‘Social influencer engagement is generally affordable, fast and effective. It definitely works – we have witnessed its success first-hand for brands, however where it comes unstuck is the lack of strategy as well as incorrect selection of influencers.

‘It’s not necessary for every brand. In this instance where restaurants and venues have a reputable name that achieves the desired patronage, the chef or owner behind the brand, is the effective influencer in their own right – and no C-grader will add any commercial value.’

For the full article head to Daily Mail

Nicole Reaney, Director of InsideOut PR and founder of influencer agency, #AsSeenOn . Nicole has extensive experience in corporate and consumer PR and Communications as is available to comment on topics.