Nationwide — Bathtub & Physique Works has discovered itself in scorching water after a current product launch sparked outrage for being racially insensitive. The corporate is now working to take away a vacation candle from its cabinets, following criticism that its design resembles the hoods worn by the Ku Klux Klan. The candle, a part of their “Snowed In” scent line, featured a snowflake design set towards a crimson background, which went viral after social media customers on X (previously Twitter) famous its similarity to the notorious white hoods with pointed tops and small holes.
The backlash was swift, with many calling for the product to be canceled and for these accountable to be fired. Bathtub & Physique Works rapidly acknowledged the severity of the state of affairs and issued an apology, acknowledging the unintended offense brought on by the design.
An organization spokesperson defined, “We’re dedicated to listening to our groups and clients and dedicated to fixing any errors we make—even these which might be unintentional like this one. We apologize to anybody we’ve offended and are swiftly working to have this merchandise eliminated and are evaluating our course of going ahead.”
This isn’t the primary time Bathtub & Physique Works has been criticized for cultural insensitivity. Simply two years in the past, the model confronted backlash throughout Black Historical past Month for repackaging on a regular basis merchandise and advertising them as “restricted version” objects with little regard for his or her cultural significance. The marketing campaign was seen by many as a tone-deaf try and capitalize on the month’s significance, resulting in widespread criticism.
These incidents spotlight the rising want for corporations to be extra culturally conscious and considerate when designing and advertising their merchandise. As Bathtub & Physique Works navigates this newest controversy, the model is being reminded of the significance of inclusivity and sensitivity in its branding.
