Swatch's Apology Over Controversial Ad Campaign

Swatch has issued an apology for an offensive ad campaign featuring a racist gesture by an Asian model. The Swiss watchmaker removed all related materials globally and addressed the matter on social media platforms. The campaign drew criticism in China and other countries for perpetuating derogatory stereotypes.

Swiss watchmaker Swatch issued an apology on Monday following backlash over an offensive advertising campaign that sparked outrage among consumers in China and beyond. The campaign featured an Asian male model making a gesture considered derogatory and racist, as reported by Swiss public broadcaster SRF.

Swatch responded to the controversy on Instagram, stating, 'we sincerely apologise for any distress or misunderstanding this may have caused.' The company has taken steps to remove all related materials on a global scale and promised to prioritize addressing the issue.

The apology was also disseminated through the Chinese social network Weibo in both Chinese and English, demonstrating Swatch's commitment to mending relations and acknowledging the significance of cultural sensitivity in advertising.

(With inputs from agencies.)