Retailer Responds to Criticism of ‘Stab-Proof’ Clothing
- Footasylum removes ‘stab-proof vest’ from stores
- Youth worker raises concerns about the product attracting unwanted attention
- Retailer describes clothing as ‘tactical wear’ from its military collection
- Spokesperson says it is a popular fashion item not intended to relate to violent or criminal activity
- Vests withdrawn from sale for foreseeable future
Footwear retailer Footasylum has removed a ‘stab-proof vest’ from its stores following concerns raised by a youth worker who believed the item could attract unwanted attention. Damian Henry, who works with young people involved in gangs or previously involved in gangs, was alarmed to see the product in the window of Footasylum’s Nottingham branch. The retailer describes the clothing as ‘tactical wear’ from its military collection. A spokesperson for Footasylum stated that it stocks a range of utility vests and clarified that the item is a popular fashion piece not meant to be associated with violent or criminal activity. However, due to the confusion surrounding the product, they have decided to withdraw it from sale temporarily.
Factuality Level: 7
Factuality Justification: The article provides accurate information about the removal of a product from a retailer’s shelves due to concerns raised by a youth worker and customers on social media. It includes quotes from both the youth worker and the retailer, and presents the situation in an objective manner.
Noise Level: 4
Noise Justification: The article is mostly focused on a specific incident involving a retailer removing a product from its shelves due to concerns about potential misinterpretation by customers. While it does raise some valid concerns, it lacks in-depth analysis or exploration of the broader implications of such products being sold and marketed.
Financial Relevance: Yes
Financial Markets Impacted: The removal of the stab-proof vests from Footasylum’s shelves could impact the company’s sales and reputation.
Financial Rating Justification: While the article primarily discusses a specific product sold by Footasylum, it also touches upon the potential impact on the company’s financial performance due to the decision to remove the item from its shelves.
Presence Of Extreme Event: No
Nature Of Extreme Event: Other
Impact Rating Of The Extreme Event: Minor
Extreme Rating Justification: There is no extreme event mentioned in the text.
www.retailsector.co.uk