Takashimaya Co. Faces Backlash as Christmas Cakes Arrive Damaged Affecting 900 Customers

Japanese department store operator Takashimaya Co. is currently in damage-control mode after approximately 900 customers reported that a cake sold online for Christmas arrived damaged. The company urgently launched an investigation to determine the cause and is issuing refunds to affected customers.

Holiday Ruined as Traditional Christmas Cakes Arrive Damaged

The holiday season turned sour for hundreds of customers who eagerly awaited the arrival of their beloved traditional Christmas cakes, only to discover their treats were squashed and ruined within the boxes. Japan Today reported that Takashimaya Co. swiftly offered reimbursements and apologies to address the frustration expressed by the aggrieved customers.

Over 530 complaints and inquiries were received by Takashimaya Co. from customers who had ordered the popular 5,400 yen ($37) strawberry shortcake, as per Nippon. The company first issued an apology on December 25th, the day it received approximately 220 reports of damage for the frozen "strawberry frill shortcake."

Social Media Flooded with Images of Disarrayed Cakes

Several customers took to social media platforms to share photographs of their delivered cakes, showcasing various disarray, including squished messes and strawberries sliding off half-melted whipped cream. The public outcry gained momentum as individuals expressed their disappointment and dissatisfaction with the compromised quality of the cakes.

Around 2,900 cakes were delivered by Yamato Transport Co between December 22nd and December 25th. The confections had been manufactured at a bakery in Hanyu, Saitama Prefecture, under the supervision of a renowned French restaurant in Yokohama.

Takashimaya Co. issued a second apology on its website in response to the wide-scale damage. The company acknowledged that contacting all affected customers individually might take a few days but assured them that efforts were underway to improve their management systems. Takashimaya pledged to consistently ensure their products and services meet the highest quality standards.

Investigation Underway to Determine Cause of Cake Damage

Despite the ongoing investigation, Takashimaya Co. has yet to identify the cause of the widespread damage to the cakes. Nonetheless, the company remains committed to rectifying the situation and preventing such incidents from occurring in the future. It reaffirms its dedication to maintaining the highest quality standards for its valued customers.

Photo: Takashimaya Co. Website