Kericho Gold Eros Tea
Kenyan premium tea brand, Kericho Gold, has found itself embroiled in a public relations crisis after publishing a controversial social media post.
The downright cringeworthy tweet was about the brand’s “Forever Eros” tea, which is a special blend of herbs, roots, and green tea that is rich in antioxidants and apparently provides benefits to the male body like hormonal balance, increased energy, sharper cognitive function, and treatment of erectile dysfunction.
“Escape into a world of sensual delight with every sip of Eros,” the post reads.
The tweet has been widely criticized for its timing and content.
Many found it distasteful that the tweet was sent out during a time when a BBC investigative report exposed the sexual exploitation of women working in Kenyan tea plantations, especially those in Kericho.
The managers were filmed preying on female workers in exchange for contract renewal and better working terms.
The documentary, which aired on Monday, February 20, has caused outrage and calls for justice for the victims.
Apart from the wrong timing, the message itself has been criticized for over-sexualization.
Netizens expressed that tea is meant to be enjoyed for its taste and health benefits, not as a symbol of sex.
Many have found the tweet to be reckless and have called for an apology from the brand.
Kericho Gold Tea is a brand of Gold Crown Beverages Ltd, a subsidiary of Global Tea and Commodities Ltd, one of the largest exporters of Black Tea in Kenya.
The company has not yet released a statement regarding the controversy.
It is our view that Kericho Gold needs to own up to its mistake, apologize, and make a commitment to better business practices.
This should be a wake-up call for brands to be more aware of their messaging and the impact it can have on society.
It is time to stop the sleazy marketing tactics and focus on what really matters: tea that is affordable, tastes good and is made ethically.
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