GASP Media Release
GASP would like to respond to the recent publicity it has received by clarifying what happened when Keara O’Neil visited their Chapel Street store last month. While they understand that the tone of the reply email may be construed as inappropriate, they believe that some other facts need to be shared so that the public can shape an informed view of the events.
Keara O’Neil was not discriminated against because of her size. She was making loud and obstructive comments like “it looks like a dead flamingo” and “I wouldn’t even wear this to my hen’s night”. GASP’s CCTV footage shows that its salesperson spent a considerable amount of time assisting Ms O’Neill to find a dress for her occasion.
On hearing her tactless remarks, the GASP staff decided that she was ruining the shopping experience for their other customers and asked her to leave the store.
Keara O’Neil has a misconceived belief that the sales assistant made an “immature dig in relation to [her] healthy size 12 frame”. Weight or shape was never an issue when she visited the store, or while she was happily trying on several dresses.
The salesperson said “This dress is well suited to your figure, and I think that you should just get it”. No discriminatory or derogatory comments were made about her size. This is supported by her own email where she said “the staff member was initially funny and extremely helpful”.
GASP sales assistants do not discriminate against size. GASP stocks garments up to Australian size 24 (size 18 USA) as evidenced by the size chart on their website www.gaspjeans.com.au and the items available in their stores.
The fact that GASP are one of the very few Australian retailers that offer high quality garments in that size range is testament to the fact that GASP not only welcomes, but invites women of all shapes and sizes to their stores.
GASP has been involved in the Australian fashion industry since 1993. It has and continues to operate a highly successful and respected business with a substantial national store rollout currently underway.
GASP attributes its success to a highly valued and talented team of sales assistants and its very high standard of company ethics. GASP values its employees equally as much as it does its customers, which is the reason it continues to be so successful in what is otherwise regarded as a difficult retail climate.
GASP encourages their customers to have an opinion, but believes these opinions should be expressed in a considerate and appropriate manner.
GASP Management
www.gaspjeans.com.au
Dubbed the brand behind fashion newest genre “Playful Couture”, Gasp seeks to attract customers who are fascinated by the playfully, sensual and evocative Gasp lifestyle. Visit us for more information about GASP Online
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