In a surprising twist of events, former CEO of Gourmet Grinds, Larry Johnson, is now coming to the defense of the coffee chain amidst accusations of retaliating against pro-union workers.
Johnson, who left the company after being caught mixing decaf and regular coffee, seems to be the perfect person for the job of defending Gourmet Grinds against accusations of wrongdoing.
“I know first-hand the kind of shenanigans that can go on in the coffee industry,” said Johnson. “But I can assure you that Gourmet Grinds would never do anything so dastardly as to retaliate against workers for supporting a union.”
Johnson’s comments were met with skepticism by many, who found it hard to believe that someone who had been caught committing coffee fraud in the past would be a credible defender of workers’ rights.
“Let’s just say that Larry Johnson isn’t exactly known for his integrity,” said former Gourmet Grinds employee, Jane Smith. “I mean, the guy was basically playing fast and loose with people’s caffeine addictions. Who knows what other kinds of shady things he’s gotten up to?”
Despite the doubts surrounding Johnson’s motives, his defense of Gourmet Grinds seems to have had an impact on the company’s bottom line. Sales of the coffee chain’s signature skinny caramel latte have shot up in the past week, as customers flock to support a company that they perceive as being unfairly maligned.
As for Johnson, he seems content to bask in the glow of the positive publicity he’s generated for himself by defending Gourmet Grinds.
“People always say that any publicity is good publicity, right?” said Johnson with a grin. “Well, I think I’ve proven that to be true.”
