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Boy Thrown into Croc Enclosure; Wowcher Apologizes for Insensitive Email

6/22/2026

50 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

A boy was thrown into the crocodile enclosure at Johnson’s of Old Hurst on June 18 and taken to Addenbrooke’s Hospital.
Wowcher emailed on June 20 at 3:15 pm with the subject “Snap up these deals quicker than a croc can catch a kid.”
Recipients complained that the subject line was in poor taste, prompting many to unsubscribe.
Wowcher apologized, called the wording unacceptable and unapproved, and pledged a review of its marketing safeguards.

History

Historical Context

After H&M’s 2018 children-wear ad showed a Black child in a “coolest monkey” hoodie, global protests highlighted how apparel can trigger racial offense. The incident echoes earlier UK backlash against hoodies, such as the 2005 Bluewater ban backed by Prime Minister Tony Blair. Today Wowcher’s crocodile-themed email revives the debate over culturally sensitive marketing.

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Story summary

A boy was thrown into the crocodile enclosure at Johnson’s of Old Hurst on June 18 and taken to Addenbrooke’s Hospital.
Wowcher emailed on June 20 at 3:15 pm with the subject “Snap up these deals quicker than a croc can catch a kid.”
Recipients complained that the subject line was in poor taste, prompting many to unsubscribe.
Wowcher apologized, called the wording unacceptable and unapproved, and pledged a review of its marketing safeguards.

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