Snickers' Welsh language Twitter jibe sparks anger
The firm's glib first attempt at an apology did not go down well and upset some people even more.
Wednesday 4 March 2020 06:21, UK
Snickers has apologised for a "misjudged" tweet that compared Welsh place names to "someone who sat on a keyboard".
The company's UK Twitter account posted names such as Llanfairpwllgwyngyll and Rhosllanerchrugog, followed by the message: "A place in Wales or someone sat on a keyboard? A thread."
The reason for the post is unclear and it was later deleted - but it provoked fury from many users who accused the chocolate bar maker of racism and xenophobia.
Ben Williams tweeted: "I'm really not sure why it was deemed appropriate to mock the Welsh language in the first place, name one other language in the entire world you deem it acceptable to do that to."
"Finished with this product until they apologise in Welsh and make a contribution to a language rights organisation," said Matthew Pudner.
"My children are Welsh speakers and face this kind of casual abuse and prejudice all too often," posted @JonesGif1.
Elin Heledd Rowlands tweeted: "It just really isn't funny to us. There's a long history behind it. Maybe do a bit more research before sharing a message to thousands of followers next time."
Snickers first attempt at an apology upset people further after it light-heartedly brushed off the criticism, tweeting: "Obviously, we need a Snickers. We love the Welsh."
Most people criticised the tweet, but some Welsh people replying to the thread said they weren't upset.
"I'm Welsh, I wasn't offended!! I'm more offended that you changed from marathon!! Yes!! Still!!! After all these years!!!" said Suzanne Burrows.
Andrew Thomas tweeted: "As a proud Welshman I found the tweet bloody hilarious. Harmless fun and can't understand the overreaction."
Snickers UK's second try at an apology struck a more sincere and contrite tone.
It posted: "From everyone at Snickers UK we're sorry to everyone offended by our last tweet, we totally misjudged it and hold our hands up for that.
"We are hugely and wholeheartedly thankful for all our Welsh fans in the UK and all over the world, and promise to not let ill-informed Tweets ruin this relationship any further."