THE SANDALS Resorts International Group has removed the word heterosexual from all its advertising in a move to comply with European Union (E.U.) laws.
"Sandals Resorts International has taken a strategic decision to remove the word 'heterosexual' from all its advertising," a release from the company's public relations department stated yesterday.
The release further stated that the removal of the word is necessary at this time, to make them compliant, particularly with European Union laws.
The Guardian newspaper in London, England reported on its website yesterday that the resort company had decided to lift the ban on same sex couples from 13 resorts.
Commercial pressure
The ban is reportedly being lifted in the face of a campaign by an ex-government minister and sexual equality groups in England. According to the newspaper report, Sandals was under commercial pressure from London's Mayor, Ken Livingstone, who had banned its advertisements from television because of its homophobic attitude to clients. He was also seeking to extend the ban to London's taxis.
However, Sandals Resorts International noted that the decision came as a result of changes in some jurisdictions in which they operate.
"The decision is a direct reponse to emerging commercial and social laws in some jurisdictions with which we do business, that now interpret what was traditionally regarded as niche marketing to be a modern day form of discrimination," the release said.
Sandals maintains that the change in policy will not affect the service it provides.
"Sandals has a proud tradition of creating the perfect getaway for male and female couples and will continue to do so," the release added.
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