“Exposed: The 12 Companies Facing Backlash for Their Bold ‘Woke’ Moves – Are They Risking It All?”
10. Adidas
at Depositphotos.com.
Adidas partnered with Ye (formerly Kanye West) on the wildly popular Yeezy line. However, after Ye made anti-Semitic remarks, the company cut ties, taking a substantial financial hit. While praised by many for this decision, others criticized the move as performative or too slow in coming.
The Yeezy fallout highlights the risks of collaborating with controversial figures. While it can initially boost sales and brand awareness, if that celebrity’s values don’t align with the company’s (or worse, if their actions are harmful), it can lead to a major PR nightmare and significant financial losses.
11. North Face
This outdoor apparel giant, known for its durable gear and commitment to sustainability, faced criticism for its “Summer of Pride” campaign featuring a drag queen. While many applauded the brand for its inclusivity, some consumers vowed to boycott, citing the campaign as inappropriate for a family-oriented brand.
North Face’s experience demonstrates the challenges of appealing to a broad audience while taking a stand on social issues. It highlights the need for companies to carefully consider their target market and ensure their activism aligns with their brand identity and overall messaging.
12. Major League Baseball (MLB)
The MLB moved its 2021 All-Star Game from Atlanta to Denver in response to Georgia’s controversial voting laws, sparking criticism from both sides of the political spectrum. Conservative politicians accused the league of “cancel culture” and virtue signaling, while others believed it was a necessary stand against voter suppression.
