JapanConsumer goods2025Sakura Color Products
AI-generated product poster at Manga Barcelona
Sakura ordered an AI-generated event poster withdrawn after finding incorrect product and logo depictions
Problem
A sales subsidiary within Sakura's group used a promotional poster to advertise its drawing products at a manga event in Barcelona. The poster depicted a character holding the products.
Approach
The poster appeared at Manga Barcelona in December 2025 and drew criticism from visitors and social media users. On December 9, Sakura said its logo breached company display rules and the illustrated PIGMA MICRON and GELLY ROLL products differed from their actual designs; it ordered use stopped and removal arranged. On December 11, it confirmed that the sales subsidiary had generated the illustration with AI. Sakura acknowledged inadequate design checks within the group and said it would strengthen them.
Results
No published figures
Takeaway
The group's design checks missed inaccurate depictions of its own products and logo. The parent company addressed both the subsidiary's production process and the approval process after publication.
Categories
- Industry
- Consumer goods
- Business function
- Marketing and sales
- Innovation type
- Process innovation
- AI technology
- Generative AI
- Adoption
- Off-the-shelf tool or platform
- Evidence
- Company's own claim
Sources
Source summaries
Sakura identified incorrect logo presentation and differences between the illustrated products and their actual designs. It ordered the promotional material's use stopped and announced removal measures.
The investigation confirmed that a sales subsidiary had used generative AI for the illustration. Sakura acknowledged insufficient design checks and promised stronger controls across the group.
The report described the poster displayed at Manga Barcelona and visitors' criticism of its illustration. It covered Sakura's withdrawal instruction and subsequent confirmation of AI use.
Full details are in the original sources.
