Backlash over Bumble's controversial celibacy ads

Bumble, a dating app, faced criticism for billboard ads that seemed to mock celibacy as a choice for meeting people online. The company later apologized for these ads that suggested celibacy is not a valid option. The ads were part of a brand redesign to attract more users, but they received backlash from women on social media. The company acknowledged its mistake and removed the ads, apologizing for any harm caused. Bumble stated its support for women's right to make personal choices and announced donations to organizations helping women and marginalized communities. The company also offered the billboard space to these organizations for their own ads. Bumble's shares have been declining, leading to layoffs and a need to appeal to younger users. The app's rebranding aimed to address issues in modern dating, but the celibacy ads missed the mark. Bumble is now focused on listening to feedback and improving its marketing strategies. The app stands out for letting women make the first move in dating, a feature introduced based on feedback from users. Bumble's co-founder emphasized the importance of empowering women in the dating scene. The company's net worth is estimated at $400 million, showing its significant impact in the industry.