Beer K, the importer responsible for Qingdao beer distribution, is currently accepting voluntary retirement applications from all employees. (Image courtesy of Yonhap)
SEOUL, Nov. 16 (Korea Bizwire) – The South Korean importer of Qingdao beer, which became embroiled in controversy following a video showing an employee at a Chinese production plant engaging in shockingly inappropriate behavior, has initiated a voluntary retirement program. This decision comes in the wake of a significant downturn in Qingdao beer sales.
The once-popular pairing of Qingdao beer with lamb skewers, akin to the renown of hamburgers and Coke, has witnessed a notable decline in demand. Consequently, sales of lamb skewers have also experienced a noticeable decrease.
Beer K, the importer responsible for Qingdao beer distribution, is currently accepting voluntary retirement applications from all employees, with the severance payment determined by the length of an individual’s service.
The controversy erupted on October 19 when a video surfaced depicting a worker at a Qingdao factory in China seemingly urinating into a tank believed to contain beer ingredients, sparking a major hygiene concern. Subsequently, Qingdao’s sales in the Korean market have been on a downward trajectory.
Once a leading beer in China and among the top two imported beers in South Korea, Qingdao has now dropped to the sixth position in the domestic market share following the hygiene scandal.
In response to the situation, Beer K released a statement early this month, stating, “We will initiate a comprehensive inspection of all products during the pre-shipment stage to ensure the safety of imported goods.”
Ashley Song (ashley@koreabizwire.com)
