Title: From Public Outrage to Brewery Remediation: The Impact of a Viral Video on Tsingtao Beer

Introduction:

In recent news, a Chinese brand, Tsingtao beer, has found itself at the center of a scandal after a shocking video went viral on social media. The footage showed a man urinating into a vat at a Tsingtao beer factory, sparking public outrage and raising concerns about product safety. In this blog post, we will delve into the details of the incident, the brewery’s response, and the consequences it had on Tsingtao’s business.

The Incident:

On October 19, a video emerged on social media showing a man dressed in blue overalls and a helmet climbing into a malt container at a Tsingtao beer factory in Pingdu, China. Shockingly, the man proceeded to urinate into the vat, leading to widespread condemnation and calls for immediate action. Tsingtao, determined to address the issue promptly, described the incident as a matter of utmost importance and reported it to the police without delay.

The Brewery’s Response:

Tsingtao Beer, the sixth-largest global beer maker and China’s second-biggest brewery, sprang into action following the incident. They took immediate steps to ensure the affected batch of malt was entirely sealed, emphasizing their commitment to maintaining product quality. The company expressed its dedication to the ongoing investigation, with the involvement of public security organizations, in order to hold responsible parties accountable.

Incident Clarification:

Tsingtao clarified that both the worker involved in the incident and the person who filmed the video were not direct employees of the brewery. This revelation shed light on the fact that the actions of these individuals did not represent the overall work ethic and principles of the company. It was an isolated incident that Tsingtao was determined to address promptly and decisively.

Public Reaction:

The release of the viral video on the Chinese microblogging platform, Weibo, triggered a variety of responses from internet users. While some made light of the incident, others were quick to show support for the brewery. The incident also led to concerns among consumers about the safety of Tsingtao beer, impacting the company’s reputation and subsequent business.

Business Consequences:

While Tsingtao assured the public that its production and operations remained fully functional, reports indicate that the video had a negative impact on its business. Local media reported that several Chinese restaurants requested reimbursements for Tsingtao beer shipments. However, the South Korean distributor of the beer declined these refund requests. China is the second-largest beer supplier to South Korea, adding to Tsingtao’s significance in the market.

Stock Market Impact:

Following the release of the viral video, Tsingtao Brewery’s shares experienced a notable decline at the Shanghai Stock Exchange. However, reports suggest that the company managed to recover during the afternoon session. It is worth noting that the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, where Tsingtao is also listed, remained closed on the day of the incident due to a public holiday.

Conclusion:

The emergence of a viral video depicting a man urinating into a Tsingtao beer vat has significantly affected the company’s operations. Tsingtao brewery responded quickly, sealing the contaminated batch and cooperating with authorities in their investigation. The incident’s impact on Tsingtao’s reputation and business, including refund requests and stock market fluctuations, highlights the importance of public perception and the brewery’s commitment to maintaining consumer confidence. Tsingtao’s focus on transparency and quality control will be crucial in regaining trust and revitalizing their brand in the aftermath of this controversy.