"We took a calculated risk, announcing the set of changes, and seeing what the fallout would be. The fallout exceeded the threshold we set, so we're now going to issue the apology we had prepared in case that situation was reached."
If they had been upfront about it from the beginning, it would still be a business decision, only less cynic.
No decision can or will please every stakeholder. You always need to make compromises.
Another secret while we're at it: adults run businesses, and have strategies that they hope are rational. Again, incredible, I know; I though companies were run by impulsive 14 yo with black and white minds.