Bath & Body Works Pulls Candle After Packaging Design Sparks Controversy

Bath & Body Works has pulled a candle from its stores and website after its packaging design sparked controversy and criticism on social media. The candle, named “Snowed In,” featured a stylized paper snowflake on its label, but many online users pointed out its resemblance to the hoods worn by members of the Ku Klux Klan (KKK).

The company has issued an apology for the design, stating that the resemblance was unintentional. “We are committed to listening to our customers and fixing any mistakes we make, even those that are unintentional,” a spokesperson for Bath & Body Works said. “We apologize to anyone we’ve offended and are evaluating our design process going forward.”

The candle was quickly removed from the company’s website after the issue gained attention on social media. Some customers who attempted to order the candle online reported that their orders were canceled.

However, the controversial candle has already appeared on online auction sites, with sellers attempting to capitalize on the controversy by offering the candle at inflated prices.

Candles are a significant part of Bath & Body Works’ product lineup, accounting for a substantial portion of the company’s annual sales. The retailer is known for its seasonal candle collections, particularly its popular holiday-themed scents.

Key Takeaways:

• Bath & Body Works has pulled a candle from its stores and website after its packaging design was criticized for resembling KKK hoods.
• The company has apologized for the unintentional design and is reviewing its design processes.
• The incident highlights the importance of careful consideration and sensitivity in product design, particularly given the potential for misinterpretations and the risk of causing offense.

This situation underscores the power of social media in amplifying consumer concerns and holding companies accountable for their product design choices. It also demonstrates the need for companies to be proactive in addressing potential controversies and to prioritize inclusivity and sensitivity in their branding and marketing efforts.