Rev. Al Sharpton Calls for Nationwide Boycott of PepsiCo Over DEI Cuts
Civil rights leader Rev. Al Sharpton and the National Action Network (NAN) have launched a national boycott of PepsiCo, accusing the global food and beverage giant of cutting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives that directly affect Black communities and businesses.
Joined by Black business leaders, political figures, and clergy, Sharpton announced the boycott at a press conference in Harlem, citing PepsiCo’s failure to honor its 2020 racial equity pledges. The company had previously committed over $400 million to support Black businesses and communities in the wake of George Floyd’s murder, a move that was widely seen as part of a broader industry-wide push toward corporate social responsibility.
Allegations of Broken Promises
Sharpton and NAN allege that PepsiCo has since backtracked on these commitments by laying off DEI personnel and reducing supplier diversity spend related to Black-owned businesses. According to NAN, the number of Black-focused DEI roles within PepsiCo has dropped sharply, and many vendor contracts with Black-owned companies have either ended or been scaled back significantly.
“PepsiCo has chosen to silently back away from commitments they made when the cameras were on,” Sharpton said. “We’re urging the Black community and allies to use their consumer power.”
Industry Implications
The boycott marks a significant escalation in pressure on FMCG companies to maintain and transparently report on progress tied to public DEI promises. It also signals growing scrutiny from advocacy groups and consumers over whether brands are holding themselves accountable beyond press releases and initial investments.
This development underscores the reputational risks FMCG brands face when perceived to be retreating from ESG-related goals. With multicultural consumers representing growing purchasing power—Black Americans alone wield an estimated $1.8 trillion in spending—the implications for brand equity and customer loyalty are substantial.
Call for Dialogue
Sharpton stated that the boycott could be lifted if PepsiCo agreed to meet with NAN and other Black leaders to address concerns and implement a corrective action plan. As of now, PepsiCo has not publicly responded to the demands or detailed the status of its 2020 racial equity commitments.
For FMCG leaders, the boycott serves