Gen Z perspectives: Grab MY faces heat, KFC freshens up and Levi's finds a loophole

Happy Friday, MARKETING-INTERACTIVE readers and welcome back to Gen Z Perspectives, your go-to feature where we unpack the week’s top stories and trending topics through the eyes of Gen Z. From the biggest industry moves to viral moments and marketing controversies worth dissecting, we’re bringing the heat with authenticity, awareness and probably a few unfiltered takes.

This week, M. Nasir took Grab Malaysia to court over an alleged unauthorised campaign, KFC unveiled a global brand refresh, and Levi’s proved that where there’s a FIFA rule, there can be a marketing workaround.

Stick around, we've got the secret recipe.

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1. M. Nasir sues Grab's registered entity MyTeksi over alleged unauthorised use of name in campaign

National music icon M. Nasir has filed a lawsuit against MyTeksi Sdn Bhd, Grab Malaysia's registered corporate entity, alleging the company used his name and brand without permission for commercial promotional purposes in a social media campaign, according to a Bernama report.

The claim states that on 23 April 2025, MyTeksi allegedly published an advertisement via @grabmy and @grabfoodmy featuring coffee products branded under GrabFood and GrabMart, accompanied by captions referencing “Kopi-kopi kegemaran M Nasir” (M. Nasir's favourite coffees) and “Dua-dua pun Grab ada” (Grab has both).

Read more here. 

2. KFC wants you to dip, dunk and drink your way through its next chapter

KFC is rolling out a global brand refresh as it looks to capitalise on growing demand for chicken, introducing new menu platforms, modern restaurant formats and an updated visual identity.

The move comes as the quick-service restaurant giant seeks to differentiate itself in an increasingly crowded chicken category, with a focus on personalisation, flavour innovation and more dynamic dining experiences.

Read more here. 

3. Is this the best branding move at the 2026 FIFA World Cup?

The logo FIFA wanted hidden is fast becoming one of the most visible branding moments of the tournament. According to media reports, FIFA has required denim brand Levi’s to cover up its logo at Levi’s Stadium ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026.

The venue, one of 16 stadiums set to host matches during the tournament, is listed on FIFA’s official website as the San Francisco Bay Area Stadium. In response, Levi’s covered its stadium logo with a white tarp but kept the outline of its iconic “batwing” shape visible.

Read more here. 

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