Energy drink maker
Red Bull has about 40% of the worldwide energy drink market. Founded in 1984 by Austrian entrepreneur Dietrich Mateschitz and Thai businessman Chaleo Yoovidhya, who own about half of the company each.
Company Assessment
(Last updated Jan 2019)
Praise
Criticism
Information
Red Bull GmbH
Praise
Criticism
Information
Misleading advertising
In 2014 a $13 million settlement was reached in two consumer class action lawsuits that allege Red Bull misrepresents the functionality and safety of its Red Bull energy drinks. The class action lawsuit took issue with the beverage maker's promises that "Red Bull gives you wings" and that it "vitalizes body and mind" due to its unique mixture of ingredients that could supposedly improve a consumer's mental and physiological performance. However, the plaintiffs allege Red Bull is no more effective than a cup of coffee or a caffeine pill. In 2019 Red Bull paid $850,000 CAD in a similar class action settlement in Canada.
Source: Top Class Actions
(2019)
Misleading advertising
This company has been criticised for irresponsible advertising. In 2019 the UK Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) upheld a complaint about a Red Bull poster seen on the London Underground network. The ASA concluded the ad breached the Code, and told told the company not to imply that Red Bull could increase focus and concentration when those claims were not authorised on the EU Register.
Company Details
Type:
Private company
Founded:
1984
Revenue:
9.7 billion EUR
(2022)
Employees:
15,779
(2022)
Subsidiaries:
Red Bull Australia Pty Ltd
Energy drink importers and marketers
Previously distributed in Australia by Schweppes Australia. Red Bull Australia took over distribution in 2010.
Contact Details
Products / Brands
Red Bull Australia
Red Bull
Energy Drinks