KFC apologizes for app’s ‘Kristallnacht’ alert
BERLIN – KFC has apologized for accidentally sending an automated push alert to its app users in Germany that appeared to urge people to order food to commemorate the 84th anniversary of Kristallnacht – the “Night of Broken Glass” – when Nazis terrorized Jews throughout Germany and Austria.
KFC Germany said the notification was an “unplanned, insensitive and unacceptable message and for this we sincerely apologize.”
“We use a semi-automated content creation process linked to calendars that include national observances. In this instance, our internal review process was not properly followed, resulting in a non-approved notification being shared,” the company said in a statement Thursday.
The chicken chain says it’s halted app communications and is reviewing its policies to avoid similar notifications in the future, adding that “we understand and respect the gravity and history of this day, and remain committed to equity, inclusion and belonging for all.”