“Exposed: The 12 Companies Facing Backlash for Their Bold ‘Woke’ Moves – Are They Risking It All?”
5. Ben & Jerry’s
at Depositphotos.com.
This beloved ice cream maker isn’t shy about activism. Their outspoken stance on issues like racial justice, climate change, and Palestinian rights has alienated some consumers and even led to legal battles over their decision to stop selling their products in Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank.
While their “values-led” model resonates with many, it also highlights the difficulty of navigating complex geopolitical issues while maintaining a global brand identity. Ben & Jerry’s is walking a tightrope, but their loyal customer base seems largely willing to support their outspoken activism.
6. Chick-fil-A
This chicken sandwich giant is known for its conservative Christian values, which sometimes clash with the LGBTQ+ community. Their donations to organizations perceived as anti-LGBTQ+ have sparked protests and boycotts, though the company has also taken steps to promote diversity and inclusion.
Chick-fil-A’s example showcases the potential backlash when a brand’s values don’t align with those of a growing segment of consumers. However, their loyal customer base, largely conservative, continues to support them, proving that social stances can also attract devoted consumers.
7. Hobby Lobby
at Depositphotos.com.
This arts and crafts retailer made headlines for their legal battle against providing employees with contraception coverage under the Affordable Care Act, citing religious objections. While this decision was ultimately upheld by the Supreme Court, it sparked boycotts and controversy.
