Businesses Go Viral for Making Signs Without AI

In July, a phenomenon dubbed the "ChatGPT flyer pandemic" was reported, wherein numerous businesses across various industries began using AI-generated posters for their advertising, resulting in a flood of identical-looking promotional material. Coffee shops, surf lesson instructors, guitar stores, bars, and even libraries were among those participating in this trend.

Unfortunately, the majority of these AI-generated posters were deemed unappealing and subpar. Consequently, businesses and organizations have now adopted a counter-trend: they are proudly displaying crudely drawn signs that openly declare their refusal to use AI in their marketing efforts.

These "anti-AI" signs have garnered significant attention and positive reactions, particularly on social media platforms like Instagram. A sample of such signs includes a pencil-written message on a piece of lined paper, depicting two stick figures smiling with the text "I will come to this event." Another post features a bar's employees holding a clipboard with a handwritten note stating, "We will NOT be using any AI post to promote the following...".

The same applies to a library's cardboard sign, bearing the message, "We will not be using AI to create content." Additionally, a café showcased several photos of someone holding a paper sign reading, "We will not be using any AI posters to promote ourselves. Instead, I will be using this paper and marker pen." The cafe's sign also included the phrase, "the pancakes are really, really GOOD!"

One of the individuals behind this anti-AI marketing movement is Rachel Karten, who works as a writer for the Link In Bio newsletter. Karten shared additional examples of these anti-AI signs with her readers. The trend appears to be short-lived, but those who embrace it can potentially gain popularity before it fades away.