Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth has sadly passed away at 3.30am (AEST) leaving the world in a state of total numbness.
But, thanks to the power of social media, many brands – particularly British ones – were quick to pay their respects to the 96-year-old Monarch and her years of service.
However, as polite and respectful as they tried, some brand’s dedications soon copped the derision they arguably deserved.
First cab of the rank was Domino’s Pizza in the UK. It showed it was in a very mournful state, changing its social media to black and declared: “Our thoughts and condolences are with the Royal Family.”
The pizza chain soon copped the derision it probably deserved. Social media declaring: “Now that Domino’s has weighed in we can heal. In 30 minutes or less!”
Another person tweeted: “The all-black layout is so funny!”
“Little Caesars sends their regards,” quipped another.
“So, for a limited time, you can get our late-monarch meal deal for just £9.99,” another wag joked. Many others made similar jokes, wondering if Domino’s would offer deals because of the Queen’s death.
Domino’s competitor, Pizza Express, chimed in with their own statement a couple hours later. “Team Pizza Express is deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Her Majesty, The Queen,” they wrote in its statement. “Our thoughts are with the royal family at this time.”
Krispy Kreme Donuts also took the time to thank the queen for her “years of loyal service to the United Kingdom.”
Ann Summers, who specialises in sex toys and lingerie, also weighed in posting an image of a much younger Queen and the message: “Thank you Ma’am, for everything – for women, for family, for our nation. Sleep well.”
One of the world’s biggest defence contractors and fighter jet builders, Lockheed Martin, paid its respects to the late Queen, hailing her as a “remarkable Commander in Chief of the British Armed Forces”.
Her Maj, if she was anything, was a style icon and the elite of the UK’s fashion houses also lined up to pay tribute to the always well-dressed Monarch. Read some of the tributes below:
Marks & Spencer
“We’re deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Her Majesty The Queen. She’s led for over 70 years with quiet determination and selfless devotion. We join the Royal Family and the nation in their grief and offer the Royal Family our heartfelt condolences.”
Victoria Beckham
“Today is a very sad day for the entire world. I’m deeply saddened by the passing of our beloved Monarch, Her Majesty The Queen. She will be remembered for her steadfast loyalty and service and my thoughts are with the royal family at this time.”
Harrods
“We stand with the entire nation in grief on the passing of Her Majesty the Queen. Her Majesty stood as a symbol of Britain, bringing comfort, leadership and steadfastness to millions over her 70-year reign. On behalf of Harrods and our employees, we send our deepest condolences to the Royal Family and our united in remembrance of her dedicated life to public service.”
John Lewis
“We are deeply saddened by the death of Her Majesty The Queen. She faithfully served the nation as our Sovereign during her long, happy and glorious reign. We extend our heartfelt sympathy to The Royal Family.”
Paul Smith
“I am deeply saddened by the passing of HM Queen Elizabeth II, who has served the UK with immense dignity, respect and selflessness over the course of her historic 70-year reign. My thoughts, those of my wife and those of the entire Paul Smith team are with the Royal Family.”
Burberry
“We are deeply saddened by the death of Her Majesty The Queen. We join the Royal Family in mourning her loss.”
British Fashion Council
“We are devastated to hear of the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II whose reign will be marked in history as one of empathy, strength and grace. Our thoughts are with the Royal Family as we celebrate The Queen’s life and remember her extraordinary legacy. It was a great honour in 2018 to host Her Majesty at London Fashion Week to launch the QEII Award for British Design which recognises design excellence and positive impact. Her Majesty’s effortless style, charm and sense of fun was evident and her passion in supporting young creatives will continue to inspire the next generation.”
Stella McCartney
“It is with great sadness that we mourn today the passing of Her Majesty The Queen. On behalf of the Stella McCartney team, I would like to express my sincerest condolences to the Royal Family.”