Argos has ditched a 'sexist' phrase from its stores and catalogues after complaints from customers. Instead of using the words 'two-man delivery' for heavy items, it will now say 'two-person delivery'.
People had complained on social media about the 'two-man' wording, saying it was outdated and implied only men were employed to deliver goods, BirminghamLive reports. Argos has confirmed the wording has been changed.
A spokesperson from Argos told The Sun: "We updated our wording earlier this year to ensure we reflect the diverse communities we serve and colleagues we work with." Argos had previously defended the use of 'man' as being used as a non-gendered term, such as 'human' and explained they had many female delivery drivers.
One twitter user, Rachel Anderson, wrote on twitter earlier this year about her reaction to a poster saying 'two-man delivery': "This poster shocked me at the weekend - not very inclusive language. Outdated phrase in this day & age. I’m sure the Argos workforce is made up of so many fabulous individuals…not only men…but women & non-binary? #DiversityandInclusion"
While Lisa wrote: "I noticed in one of your stores your ad was sexist 2 man delivery, hopefully moving forward you'll change this to 2 person delivery or something :)"
However, the updated phrasing has also been criticised. Natalie tweeted: "Have I seriously just read that Argos have ditched the phrase ‘two man delivery’ because people are saying its sexist?? I want to go back to the 90s/early 2000s when people didn't get offended so easily."
And Paul Dodds tweeted: "Why are people getting upset at Argos for saying 2 man delivery?? GET A LIFE."
On its website, the high street chain has a helpful Q&A for customers which confirms the use of 'two people delivery'. In the FAQ section, one customer asks: "Do you use two people for the delivery for large items?"
The chain then replies: "Yes, we do. For bigger items (things like sofas, freezers etc.) our friendly drivers will contact you on the day of delivery with an estimated delivery slot, and they’ll safely take your order to your room of choice.
"Please note, delivery prices may change but you’ll be able to see any delivery charges before you pay at the checkout."
