Australian perfume brand Hideaway has responded to backlash after sending Kiwi customers an “insulting” and “offensive” marketing text using Kiwi lingo.
The company which is co-owned by Influencer Ashy Bines slammed after it contacted its Kiwi consumers to tell them they ‘stink’ and should buy the perfume.
“Chur bro, you stink like Rotorua aye. Grab some of this mean-as perfume from the cuz round the corner. Lara reckons it’s choice as, so hook yourself up. Kia ora!” the full-text read.
An hour or so later they sent out a follow-up text saying it was “banter” and meant “no offense”
“Sorry if our last msg came off wrong – just Kiwi banter! We’ve got proud Kiwis on the team and meant no offence. All love.”
However, the follow-up text didn’t quite smooth things over and the company then made another apology after they received many complaints on their Instagram page.
“Our intention was never to be insensitive, but we now recognise that our message came across in a way that was very inappropriate.”
“This was written as lighthearted banter by one of our Kiwi team members, but upon reflection, we can see how it has been received differently.”
“Your feelings are completely valid, and we take full responsibility for our words. We are taking this as an opportunity to reflect and do better moving forward.”
While they did apologise it did not stop many former Kiwi customers from letting their anger be known.
“I came across this company a few days ago and that text was the first communication I had received… so I guess the marketing team is taking notes from the “How to Lose Customers” handbook.” one person wrote.
“Ummmm people don’t speak like that in New Zealand… read the room, it’s not funny,’ said another.”
“Hey so um the message you guys just sent to NZ customers is absolutely insane?’ another wrote.
The apology has since been taken down.
Photo Credit: Daily Mail
