Part 2/7:
Recent comments from Target's CEO point to a rising tide of consumer backlash against companies perceived to be vacillating on their DEI commitments. The Axios Harris Poll, managed by Sarah Fischer, provides compelling evidence that consumers demand consistency from brands. Companies that have historically championed DEI or environmental policies face negative consequences if they appear to pander to changing political climates or stakeholder pressures.
According to Fischer, "There's one through line every single year, which is that as a company, consumers want you to stand up for the policies and the principles that you've always stood for." When businesses alter their messaging or practices to align with short-term political gains, they risk alienating their consumer base.