Did the apple fall from the tree? Citizen Cider’s controversy

Citizen Cider, a Vermont-based company, was known for its locally sourced and innovative ciders. In late 2023, they found themselves at the center of controversy. Allegations of a toxic and misogynistic workplace culture, coupled with backlash over an ill-conceived marketing campaign for its new beer line, led to a widespread local boycott. Responding to the situation, a local restaurant owner opted to remove the cider from the menu. The controversy gained traction when a viral video by a prominent local comedian highlighted employee grievances, further damaging Citizen Cider’s reputation. As the situation escalated, local news outlets began covering the controversy. In response, the company issued a Facebook post stating that the perspectives being shared were misinformed and did not accurately reflect the company’s values. Despite their efforts, the situation raised broader questions about corporate accountability, branding missteps, and the challenges of maintaining community trust during a public relations crisis.