George Floyd’s death sparked nationwide protests and ultimately served as a catalyst for anti- discrimination efforts.
Many companies also responded by releasing statements against racism. And some took action, setting quantifiable goals to increase diversity by changing their hiring practices and re-evaluating the businesses they work with, as noted by marketplace.org (May 24).
With that in mind, on the one-year anniversary of Floyd’s death, here are four recent initiatives that major food companies have pursued to support diversity and stamp out discrimination.
Diversity Scorecards
Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen began publishing annual diversity scorecards, which include data showing the racial and ethnic breakdown of internal and external personnel involved in its marketing efforts. The company said it would give preference to ad agencies that demonstrate a commitment to improving their diversity, including mandates that at least 50% of the candidates be ethnically diverse or female, reported The Wall Street Journal (May 20).
Community Investments
Starbucks recently invested $100 million to launch the Starbucks Community Resilience Fund, which focuses on supporting small businesses and community development projects in Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC) neighborhoods. The company is also partnering with the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC) to share the museum’s educational resources and digital volunteer opportunities.
PepsiCo recently invested $1 million to support the Asian American community’s recovery from pandemic setbacks and discriminatory attacks. Funding partnerships include the Asian American Business Development Center (AABDC), the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF), the National Restaurant Association and The Asian American Foundation (TAAF). These efforts are part of Stronger Together, community-based programs that leverage the expertise of PepsiCo and its partners to connect people and support communities in need.
Supplier Partnerships
Kroger’s set a goal to spend $10 billion with diverse suppliers by 2030. This includes businesses owned and operated by people of color, women, veterans, LGBTQ individuals or individuals with disabilities, according to Winsight Grocery Business (May 10). The company also introduced a Small Business Resource Guide, which offers tips for securing new partnerships and expanding existing relationships with diverse suppliers.
