Hong Kong client of troubled PR firm Bell Pottinger rethinks ties over South Africa race scandal
But UK firm’s office in the city says Asia business is separate and it will strive to reassure customers
A Hong Kong client of troubled British public relations firm Bell Pottinger is rethinking its working relationship with the company, over a controversial campaign that stirred racial tensions in South Africa.
Malvern College, a UK-based institution which is set to open a new international school next year in Tai Po, has previously used Bell Pottinger’s services but is now reconsidering their business with the firm.
Bell Pottinger was accused of its role in a South African campaign that highlighted the power of white-owned businesses, sparking anger over what it called “white monopoly capital” and “economic apartheid” in a country where race relations are still sensitive.
British PR firm Bell Pottinger expelled from association for running secret ‘racial’ campaign in South Africa
Malvern College Hong Kong admissions and marketing director Holly Tse said: “[The school] noted the recent issue of Bell Pottinger happening in South Africa. We are an international school that respects different cultures, and only work with a partner aligned with our philosophy.
“The top management is now reviewing the working relationship with Bell Pottinger and will come up [with] a decision very soon.”
“HSBC has used Bell Pottinger for specific projects in the past but will not be doing so in the future,” an HSBC spokesman said.