PepsiCo Meets With Rev. Al Sharpton Amid DEI Scrutiny
PepsiCo executives recently convened with civil rights leader Rev. Al Sharpton to discuss the company’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), following mounting concerns over reported rollbacks in corporate DEI initiatives. The meeting, held in Purchase, New York, signals growing pressure on major FMCG players to maintain social responsibility even as political and legal winds shift.
According to the National Action Network (NAN), which Sharpton founded, the dialogue addressed PepsiCo’s internal DEI strategies and sought clarity on how the company will navigate ongoing public scrutiny related to its inclusion programs. The issue gained momentum after targeted criticism by conservative groups and politicians who claim DEI efforts in large corporations have gone too far.
“We are not in the business of forcing companies to adopt DEI. We are in the business of holding them accountable when they say they are committed to it,” Sharpton said following the meeting. NAN stated it will continue monitoring PepsiCo’s next steps, with further engagement expected in the coming months.
After the murder of George Floyd in 2020, many multinational FMCG companies publicly pledged to prioritize racial equity and invest in inclusive corporate cultures. PepsiCo was among them, launching initiatives aimed at increasing Black representation in leadership, expanding supplier diversity, and investing in community programs. However, four years later, several of these programs are reportedly being scaled back or re-evaluated—sparking concern that such commitments may recede under political pressure.
The wider FMCG sector is facing similar tension. DEI leaders at other major packaged goods companies have left their roles, raising questions about whether these positions remain a priority amid cost-cutting measures and shareholder pressure.
PepsiCo has not released a public statement detailing the outcomes of the meeting, but sources close to the company suggest strategic DEI plans remain under internal review. For FMCG executives and brand leaders, the implications are clear: consumers, advocacy groups, and employees are watching brands’ values as closely as their value propositions.
As legislative and social challenges mount against DEI initiatives, sustained transparency and dialogue will be crucial for companies aiming to retain trust and relevance among diverse markets. The spotlight now intensifies on how PepsiCo—and the broader industry—will respond.