Target reportedly lost billions in market value after receiving backlash for their “pride” collection. As we previously reported, folks called to boycott the retail giant, whose 2023 pride collection featured a “tuck-friendly” swimsuit.
Target said on Tuesday it was removing some items from its stores and making other changes to its LGBTQ+ merchandise nationwide ahead of Pride month after intense backlash. In a statement released on their website, the company stated, “For more than a decade, Target has offered an assortment of products aimed at celebrating Pride Month. Since introducing this year’s collection, we’ve experienced threats impacting our team members’ sense of safety and well-being while at work.”
RELATED:Target Removes LGBTQ+ Pride Month Products Despite CEO Doubling Down Amid Backlash
The statement continued, “Given these volatile circumstances, we are making adjustments to our plans, including removing items that have been at the center of the most significant confrontational behavior. Our focus now is on moving forward with our continuing commitment to the LGBTQIA+ community and standing with them as we celebrate Pride Month and throughout the year.”
After debuting their “tuck-friendly” swimwear line for adults and minors, the company came under fire. However, Target CEO, Brian Cornell defended the line and said that the company made a good business decision that helped to add value and drive sales to the megastore.
As he continued to double down, Cornell also stated that the company had zero intentions on dropping the line amid accusations of indoctrinating and grooming children. Despite several shoppers calling to boycott Target, Cornell stood by his decision and the company’s commitment to add diversity and inclusion into their brand.
A part of his doubling down, Cornell also addressed the backlash the company had received on Fortune‘s podcast, ‘Leadership Next.’ Cornell said, “I think those are just good business decisions, and it’s the right thing for society, and it’s the great thing for our brand. The things we’ve done from a DE&I [diversity, equity, and inclusion] standpoint, it’s adding value. It’s helping us drive sales, it’s building greater engagement with both our teams and our guests, and those are just the right things for our business today.”
More ‘MAGA’ looting Target.. pic.twitter.com/e70LKTeKPZ
— 🇺🇸ProudArmyBrat (@leslibless) May 26, 2023
I’ve obtained an EXCLUSIVE internal email from a TARGET LEADERSHIP to management.
Target reaffirming their support for grooming kids and LGBTQIA+ content for minors. @Target wants to lose another $9 billion. Let’s help them! pic.twitter.com/zALckihXR7
— Charlie Kirk (@charliekirk11) May 25, 2023
Target Said They Don’t Target Kids… pic.twitter.com/4OUl9Su1z9
— AɯƙɯαɾԃMαɱα™® (@Aspiemama_107) May 26, 2023