Willy Wonka: when the advert was better than the event
This is a historical case study, not a new 2026 incident.
THE CLAIM
Promotional material suggested a spectacular immersive chocolate-factory experience in Glasgow.
WHAT IS ESTABLISHEDFamilies arrived to find a sparsely decorated warehouse and a much smaller experience than the fantasy visuals suggested. The event was widely reported and attracted complaints; organisers apologised.
WHAT NEEDS CAREThe promotional illustrations were AI-generated, but that alone does not establish criminal fraud or prove every promise made by the organiser.
How to investigate an event advert
- Preserve the original ticket listing, images and exact promises.
- Verify the event venue and named organiser independently.
- Compare dated attendee photos and multiple accounts, not just one viral clip.
- Ask the organiser for comment and label unresolved claims.
Reporting and further reading
BBC News coverage of the Glasgow event
Chop verdict: Misleading expectations supported by reporting; don't confuse AI illustration with evidence of a real physical installation.