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Google removes over 50 DEI groups from a list of groups it helps fund
TechCrunch· 2025-08-04 14:52
Group 1 - Google has removed the names of 58 DEI groups from its 2024 funding list, which includes organizations like the Latino Leadership Alliance and the ACLU of Illinois [1] - The changes in Google's funding list follow the Trump administration's stance to target companies that openly support DEI initiatives, raising questions about whether Google continues to support these groups in secret [2] - Over the past year, Google has made significant changes to its diversity policies, including the removal of diversity hiring goals and the elimination of terms like "underrepresented" and "diversity" from various platforms, including its 10k filings [3]
Target slashes outlook after tariffs, DEI boycotts slam sales: ‘We're not satisfied with these results'
New York Post· 2025-05-21 15:00
Core Viewpoint - Target has lowered its full-year sales forecast due to weak discretionary spending, tariff pressures, and consumer boycotts related to its DEI policies [1][5][15] Sales Performance - Comparable sales dropped 3.8% in the quarter ended May 3, exceeding Wall Street's expectations for a decline [2] - The company now expects net sales to fall by a low single-digit percentage, abandoning earlier hopes for a modest increase [1][8] Challenges Faced - CEO Brian Cornell cited several headwinds, including five consecutive months of declining consumer confidence, uncertainty regarding potential tariffs, and backlash from DEI policy updates [3][4] - Target's vulnerability is highlighted compared to competitors like Walmart, which have larger grocery operations that provide a buffer against declines in discretionary spending [6] Internal Strain and Leadership Changes - Signs of internal strain are evident, with a leadership shakeup announced, including the departure of longtime executive Christina Hennington [10] - Chief Operating Officer Michael Fiddelke will lead a new "multiyear acceleration office" aimed at reigniting growth [10] Consumer Backlash and Boycotts - Target has faced boycotts from both conservative and liberal groups due to its handling of diversity initiatives and LGBTQ-themed products [11][12] - The backlash resulted in a 40-day consumer boycott beginning in March and a class-action lawsuit alleging misleading information about financial risks associated with DEI policies [15] Tariff Impact - Tariffs are compounding Target's challenges, influencing pricing strategies, although executives avoided directly blaming tariffs [15][16] - The company is negotiating with suppliers and adjusting sourcing strategies to mitigate tariff impacts [16] Future Strategies - Despite setbacks, Target is focusing on value-driven seasonal events and partnerships to rekindle consumer interest [18] - The company plans to introduce over 10,000 new items this summer, with prices starting as low as $1, aiming to win everyday consumer moments [19]