East African Breweries PLC (EABL) has vehemently denied allegations leveled by African Originals, dismissing them as baseless and lacking any substantiating evidence.
The accusations, which include claims of a smear campaign and unfair trade practices, were refuted by EABL in a press release issued today.
“African Originals’ allegations against EABL are false, defamatory, and entirely without merit,” stated the EABL. “We uphold the highest standards of ethical business conduct and fair competition, as outlined in our internal policies.”
The controversy stems from African Originals’ assertion that EABL, a subsidiary of Diageo, engaged in a “dirty tricks campaign” aimed at driving the startup out of the Kenyan market.
African Originals, known for its “Kenyan Originals” range of ciders, gins, and iced teas, alleges that since EABL’s introduction of a competing cider range last December, it has faced numerous obstacles, including disparagement of its products and challenges in retail distribution.
However, EABL maintains that it has no affiliation with African Originals’ products or the alleged smear campaign. “We are committed to fair competition and reject any insinuation of unethical behavior,” EABL added.
African Originals also raised concerns about the origin of social media posts alleging health issues related to its products, hinting at possible connections with influencers associated with EABL.
“EABL is formally requesting African Originals retract their false allegations,” the statement read.
