Donald Trump’s toxic remarks about Muslims drew fresh criticism from the region as Dubai’s Landmark Group suspended sales of the Trump-branded products.
The US Republican hopeful triggered a global outcry after he called on Monday for a “total shutdown” of Muslims entering the US.
Now the Dubai-based Landmark Group, which runs 1,350 stores across the Middle East, Africa and the Indian Subcontinent, has decided to take action.
The group, which includes Centrepoint, Splash and Babyshop in its retail portfolio, signed a deal in February this year for its Lifestyle outlets to sell items from the Trump Home collection to customers in the UAE and wider Gulf region.
But the retailer said on Wednesday it had suspended sales of all Trump-branded products indefinitely from all of its stores.
The Trump Home Decor collection includes wall lighting, bathroom accessories, mirrors and home accents such as faux antique bird cages and coat racks.
“In light of the recent statements made by the presidential candidate in the US media, we have suspended sale of all products from the Trump Home decor range,” said Sachin Mundhwa, the chief executive at Lifestyle.
The Trump-branded golf course in Damac’s Akoya development on the outskirts of Dubai will retain its association with the US businessman, the developer said on Tuesday.
The billionaire reality TV star has led the Republican race for the presidential nomination since polling began.
He has become known for regularly courting controversy with outrageous comments about the Chinese, Mexicans, journalists and the disabled.
But his latest remarks have brought worldwide opprobrium and a consensus that his rhetoric has now crossed a line.
“While individuals, corporations and brands have been moving towards social responsibility, they also need to display responsibility towards individuals, cultures and religions,” said Rakesh Kumar, the chairman of the branding agency Firefly Millward Brown.
ascott@thenational.ae
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