Sanrio ends Hello Kitty tie‑in with Japanese spy drama after Chinese criticism
Sanrio, the maker of Hello Kitty, has terminated its merchandise partnership with the Japanese television series Vivant, the BBC reported.
Sanrio, the maker of Hello Kitty, has terminated its merchandise partnership with the Japanese television series Vivant, the BBC reported. The decision followed criticism that emerged in China over the collaboration. Sanrio issued an apology for the line, acknowledging the backlash. The company’s move to cut ties came after the negative response, signalling a swift reaction to the controversy.
The episode underscores how public sentiment in one market can prompt a global brand to reassess and discontinue a product line.
Why it matters
It shows how criticism in a major market can force companies to end partnerships and issue apologies.
Key details
- Location
- Japan · Asia
- Reported by
- BBC News
- First reported
- Key names
- Hello Kitty, China, Japanese TV, Japanese
- Section
- Entertainment
Sources
This is an independent summary. Read the full, original reporting from the publisher:
Read the full story at BBC NewsSpotted an error? Request a correction · How this summary was produced
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