Buy Solar. Get a Gun. Literally.

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Is this an irresponsible business strategy or brilliant marketing in disguise?

What better way to get a gun-toting NRA member to go green? Give ’em a free firearm with a purchase of a 3kW+ solar system. That’s right… green power and fire power, now, go hand in hand thanks to the fine folks at Bland Solar & Air.

But don’t expect to get your free gun on the spot. According to the solar company,

“A gift certificate is issued in amount of $400 to use at applicable sporting goods store. Depending on eligibility and legal status of customer he or she may use $400 certificate for credit toward gun, rifle, or ammunition or choose $400 rebate.”

Whew! Thank God. Or we may have a bunch of eco-friendly gangsters running around.

All kidding aside, I can’t help but wonder if this is brilliant marketing.

First, the ad is likely getting a lot of attention. I’m writing about it, and I originally read about it on The Consumerist. Remember the car dealership that was offering a free gun with a car purchase? Free publicity is good publicity (unless you’re BP).

Secondly, and let’s face it, getting the lefty environmentalists to consider solar energy is not a stretch. The real challenge is engaging with the more right-leaning, conservative folks. You know, the ones who are carrying guns while they get their morning latte at Starbucks.

Yes, I’m making a generalization, but the point is the ad may pique the curiosity of a demographic not normally interested in clean energy. And that’s a good thing. Whether someone switches to solar power to save money, or to save the environment or to get a free gun, it’s still a win/win/win scenario.

And don’t forget Bland Solar & Air’s slogan…

“At Bland Solar, our focus is on top quality customer service – point blank.”

Follow Cindy Tickle on Twitter @ethicalbiz
Image Credit and Source of Humor: The Consumerist

4 thoughts on “Buy Solar. Get a Gun. Literally.”

  1. I think this is a great ad campaign – absurd, but great…

    This would be like offering a gift certificate for Omaha Steaks and front row seats to a Glenn Beck show for buying a Prius…

  2. I think this is a great ad campaign – absurd, but great…

    This would be like offering a gift certificate for Omaha Steaks and front row seats to a Glenn Beck show for buying a Prius…

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