Jun 19, 2020
Colgate reviews China's Darlie brand amid race debate
Colgate-Palmolive is reviewing Chinese toothpaste brand Darlie as firms reassess race stereotypes in products. The popular Chinese brand features a caricature of a man with blackface make-up and the name translates as "Black person toothpaste". A string of high-profile brands are also reviewing names and logos in light of the racism debate in the US. The toothpaste brand was originally called Darkie before it was changed to Darlie in 1989, following pressure from shareholders and other groups. "For more than 35 years, we have been working together to evolve the brand, including substantial changes to the name, logo and packaging. We are currently working with our partner to review and further evolve all aspects of the brand, including the brand name," a Colgate spokesman told the BBC. Colgate paid $50m in 1985 for 50% of Hong Kong-based Hawley & Hazel, the maker of Darlie. The brand controls 17% of the toothpaste market in China, 21% in Singapore, 28% in Malaysia and 45% in Taiwan, according to data firm Euromonitor International.
Related companies
Make a complaint about Colgate by viewing their customer service contacts.
