H&M apologises for racist Twitter response

The global clothing brand was recently launched in South Africa.

H&M logo. Picture: Twitter

H and M South Africa

| 1284 days ago

JOHANNESBURG - Clothing retail store H&M has apologised for a social media statement that suggested its use of white models portrayed a more 'positive image' of the brand.

The retailer, which has recently landed in South Africa, was criticised on Twitter yesterday for the lack of black models in its global marketing campaign when it provided a puzzling response to the matter.

H&M in South Africa is asked why they dont have black models for their clothes on posters & this is their response😷 pic.twitter.com/KyKtdHP8dQ
— Mbally (@_ZuluRose) November 5, 2015

Twitter users were confused and offended by the response.

H&M want to convey the positive image of an SA without black folk. Basically.

LOL. Yes. Ah. *exits*

@afterthoughts pic.twitter.com/WehjGtfRMT

Ottilia A MaSibanda (@MaS1banda) November 5, 2015

Wait.

H&M are saying that they have white models *in South Africa* because they want to convey a positive image? pic.twitter.com/tJg85MNRkJ

Beyoncé Pad Thai* (@PearlPillay) November 5, 2015

The company has since apologised.

H&M regrets the response to a social media message that was recently aired and wishes to clarify the intention. pic.twitter.com/IybEBotudU

hmsouthafrica (@hmsouthafrica) November 5, 2015

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H&M apologises for racist Twitter response

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