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Woolworths: Pay Ubuntu Baba back, says Twitter

Woolworths has said it will remove the Ubuntu Baba baby carriers from its shelves, but Twitter wants the retailer to do more to show it is serious about developing small businesses.

After meeting with the founder and designer of Ubuntu Baba baby carriers on Wednesday, Shannon McLaughlin, Woolworths issued a statement indicating that it wrapped up its investigation into allegations of copying.

"While there are differences in our baby carrier, there are striking similarities which we acknowledge and take responsibility for," the statement read.

"We are removing all product from our stores and online. Customers who wish to return their product may do so for a full refund. We remain deeply committed to the development of small businesses in South Africa."

The retailer said it apologised to McLaughlin, who is yet to comment on the matter.

The saga created a social media storm over the past two days, and Twitter users took to the social platform  again on Wednesday to express their views on the latest development.

One user @MugeeRock asked if Woolworths would stock Ubuntu Baba carriers to show the retailer is indeed committed to small business development.

Similarly user @RonnyLekaowa was among other users who think Woolworths should use Ubuntu Baba as a supplier of its baby carriers.

Another user @BarbaraCurson suggested Woolworths should pay Ubuntu Baba royalties on all products which have already been sold.

User @Gr8_White00 proposed that the profits Woolworths made on baby carrier sales to Cotlands and donate the remaining baby carriers to state hospitals.

User @AneleMda reckons reckons Woolworths should reimburse McLaughlin for all its baby carrier sales.

Tell us what you think - how should Woolworths make amends to Ubuntu Baba? Email editor@fin24.com

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