Garden Company apologises after crowd chaos mars student sandwich record bid

One of Hong Kong's oldest bread and biscuit manufacturers, Garden Company, has apologized and vowed to reassess its crowd management protocols after a world-record attempt involving more than 700 students faced chaos. The incident unfolded on Sunday at SKH Tang Shiu Kin Secondary School in Wan Chai, where the company aimed to break the record for the "largest sandwich-making lesson" to celebrate its 100th anniversary.

Over 700 primary school students participated, with an estimated 1,400 individuals, including parents, attending the event, leading to overcrowding at the venue. Social media users reported instances of people pushing through the doors, nearly causing a stampede, and criticized the organizers for inadequate crowd control. The Garden Company acknowledged the safety concerns, posting on social media that they are "deeply sorry" for the "shortcomings in the organization" of the event and are conducting a thorough review of their procedures.

They expressed regret for the extended wait times at the event's conclusion and noted that videos showed paper towels scattered across the floor and many children waiting in the corridors amid chaotic scenes. Some attendees complained on social media that parents panicked and forcibly entered the venue, disregarding staff instructions, causing damage to the doors.

Additionally, parents expressed dissatisfaction with unclear instructions, a venue too small with only one exit, and confusion about where to direct their children upon exiting.