JERUSALEM (JTA) — Garnier was facing a boycott threat over its donation of personal care products to female Israeli soldiers serving in the Gaza operation.
The cosmetics and toiletries firm, which is owned by L’Oreal, has faced a backlash after the distribution of its care packages by the StandWithUs Israel advocacy group. The products were donated by Garnier Israel.
StandWithUs publicized the care packages on its Facebook page, with a “shoutout” to Garnier for its contribution. Critics on Facebook threatened the boycott.
The company on Thursday tried to head off criticism with a statement on its Facebook page disassociating itself from the donation to the Israeli army.
“Garnier USA is aware of recent activity in social media. It is very important to us that our fans know that Garnier worldwide promotes peace and harmony and has a strict policy of not getting involved in any conflict or political matter,” the statement said. “Garnier was astonished to discover this in social media.
“After investigation, the hand-out of about 500 products appeared to be part of a one-time local retailer initiative. Garnier disapproves of this initiative managed strictly at local level and is very sorry to have offended some of its fans.”
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