Clicks suspends staff linked to alleged racist ad, senior executive resigns
The chain store has also made the decision to remove all TRESemmé products from its shelves with immediate effect.
WITH the continuous pressure placed on Clicks by the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) and the general public, Clicks has suspended all employees responsible for publishing the alleged racist advert and the senior executive responsible has also resigned.
The chain store said it has since implemented a number of proactive measures to drive diversity and inclusivity that will help develop and expand the local beauty market, in partnership with the government.
CEO Vikesh Ramsunder said all suspended employees will go through a fair and unbiased disciplinary hearing that will be overseen by an independent outside chairperson.
ALSO READ: WATCH: EFF members protest outside Westville Clicks
Clicks will also delist and remove all TRESemmé products from its shelves with immediate effect and will replace the products with locally sourced hair care brands.
“We are prioritising our diversity and inclusion training programme for our head office staff. We will be reviewing its content, extending it wider and implementing it with more urgency and focus. We are working with the SAPS to ensure the safety of our staff, customers and members of the public, and thank them for continuing to shop with us,” Ramsunder says.
He also said the brand will close all of its stores across the country on Wednesday, 9 September and would use it to engage directly with all store staff by providing counselling and support.
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