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An Abbotsford, B.C., florist has found herself at the center of an online backlash due to an unfortunate case of mistaken identity. Keri McKinley, owner of Everbloom Designs, has reported a surge of negative reviews that she believes are directed at her business mistakenly, as it bears a similar name to a flower shop in Tennessee, Everbloom Design.
The confusion escalated following the recent U.S. elections, particularly after the Tennessee shop’s owner made headlines by announcing they would refuse service to supporters of President-Elect Donald Trump. This statement triggered a wave of backlash from MAGA supporters, seemingly spilling over into McKinley’s business, which has no connection to the political controversy.
McKinley asserts that her shop does not engage in political discourse and is committed to serving all customers equally. She expressed concern over the implications of this online attack on her business, noting a tangible decline in sales. “We’ve received phone calls from individuals expressing their anger, often yelling at us,” she detailed. “It creates a tough environment for my staff, who strive to maintain a safe and healthy workplace.”
Impact of Online Reviews
This situation illustrates the potential dangers of online review platforms, where misinterpretations can lead to severe repercussions for businesses that have no involvement in the issues at hand. Despite the onslaught of negative feedback, McKinley reported a wave of support from her loyal customers who have responded with positive reviews after learning about the situation.
While McKinley is navigating the fallout from this ordeal, she remains focused on providing quality service to her clientele and reinforcing a welcoming atmosphere at Everbloom Designs. The incident highlights the growing consequences of online reputation and the importance of clarifying information, particularly in a highly polarized political environment.
Source
globalnews.ca