What are the world's worst products and brands? And, why are they the worst?

Graeme Codrington, who I rate as one of the best public speakers in our nation today, often posts some extremely challenging thoughts on his blog tmtd.biz.

I have heard him speak on two occasions (both were 'mind the gap' presentations - by the way he has written that into a fantastic book that is well worth reading!  Click on the previous link to buy your copy).  Both times I left the presentation inspired, challenged, and ready to change the world!  Not bad for a Baptist (at least I think he's a Baptist!  Please correct me if I'm wrong!)

He posted this very interesting post (I assume it is a challenge to his corporate clients, many of whom must read his blog - since I noted the later post on triple bottom line reporting).  

This was truly challenging stuff:

The world?s worst products, as voted for by Consumers International.

Coca-Cola ? for continuing the international marketing of its bottled water, Dasani, despite admitting it comes from the same sources as local tap water.
Kellogg?s ? for the worldwide use of cartoon-type characters and product tie-ins aimed at children, despite high levels of sugar and salt in their food products.
Mattel ? for stonewalling US congressional investigations and avoiding overall responsibility for the global recall of 21 million products.
With the overall prize going to: Takeda Pharmaceuticals ? for taking advantage of poor US regulation and advertising sleeping pills to children, despite health warnings about pediatric use.
Richard Lloyd, Director General of Consumers International, said:

?These multi-billion dollar companies are global brands with a responsibility to be honest, accountable and responsible. In highlighting their short-comings Consumers International and its 220 member organisations are holding corporations to account and demanding businesses take social responsibility seriously.?

See a newspaper report with some details and commentary here.

Technorati tags:  Coca Cola, Kelloggs, Mattel, Takeda Pharmaceuticals