American department store Bloomingdales has come under fire after sharing a misguided advert which has been accused of ‘promoting’ date rape.

The ad shows a man and a woman in Christmassy attire with the caption: "Spike your best friend's eggnog when they're not looking."

Understandably, the company received a massive backlash on social media after images of the ad went viral.

One critic wrote: “#Blooningdales encouraged you to date rape your friend for the holidays.”

Another tweeted: “Seriously endorsing date rape drugging? Talk about blurred lines and ethics. So bad. Hope you fired the ad team.”

After numerous complaints, Bloomingdales released an apology for the ad, admitting that it as a huge ‘error of judgement’.

The company said in a statement: "In reflection of recent feedback, the copy we used in our current catalog was inappropriate and in poor taste. Bloomingdale's sincerely apologises for this error in judgment.”

Do you think this ad should have gone out? Let us know on Facebook and Twitter (@CloserOnline)