Fitness brand Peloton – known for its high-tech stationary bikes and cult-like following – announced Wednesday a recall of both its Tread and Tread+ treadmills following the death of a child and some 70 reported incidents associated with the products.
Click here to read the story at thedrum.com.
Discussion Questions:
- What is publicity?
- The article suggests that Peloton has run into a “PR nightmare”. What does that mean?
- Why did Peloton decide to recall the product? Do you think they had to? Was it the right decision? Why or why not?
- What are ethics?
- Do you think Peloton handled this situation ethically? Why or why not?
- How does negative publicity impact a company?
- It has been said that “all publicity is good publicity.” What does that mean?
- Do you agree with that concept? Why or why not?
- What is crisis management?
- How does the concept of crisis management apply in Peloton’s case?
- According to this story, how should Peloton respond to this public relations crisis?
- If you were a PR professional advising Peloton, how would you recommend they respond? Why? Be prepared to discuss your ideas.