Domino's Issues Apology After Birmingham Mother Discovers KKK on Pizza Order
The pizza giant Domino's has issued a formal apology after a Black mother from Birmingham reported that her takeaway order box and the on-screen reference displayed the initials KKK. These letters are widely recognised as being associated with the Ku Klux Klan, a notorious white supremacist organisation that originated in the United States following the Civil War.
Distressing Incident at Selly Oak Branch
Charmaine Porter, a 42-year-old resident, stated that the unsettling event occurred at the Domino's branch located on Bristol Road in Selly Oak. She detailed how she placed an order for her 14-year-old daughter on March 19, only to notice staff members laughing before she spotted the KKK reference on the order screen. Porter expressed initial disbelief, struggling to accept that this could possibly be linked to her family's meal.
"I felt angry, frustrated, and deeply embarrassed, especially because my daughter was right there with me," Porter told local media. She emphasised that other orders on the screen showed actual customer names, making the KKK designation stand out even more prominently and causing significant distress.
Customer's Experience and Staff Response
Porter explained that she was not asked for a name or any specific reference when placing her order, marking this as her first visit to that particular store. The experience has left her feeling so uncomfortable that she has vowed never to return to that branch and is now hesitant about ordering from Domino's altogether.
She further alleged that a staff member approached her while laughing, claiming he was attempting to make her happy—a response that Porter felt only exacerbated the situation. Her primary demands included a sincere apology and a gesture of goodwill directed towards her daughter, who witnessed the entire incident.
Domino's Official Statement and Actions Taken
In response, Domino's released a statement apologising for how the situation was handled in-store. The company described the printing of the initials as a genuine error with absolutely no malicious intent, acknowledging that the situation would have been deeply distressing for the customer and her family.
A spokesperson confirmed that Domino's is actively collaborating with the franchise partner operating the Selly Oak store to thoroughly investigate what transpired and ensure appropriate measures are taken. The franchise has already reached out to Charmaine Porter to offer a personal apology and has issued a full refund for the order.
This incident highlights ongoing concerns about sensitivity and customer service protocols within the food service industry, particularly in diverse communities like Birmingham.
