Target has recently faced criticism for its “tuck-friendly” Pride swimwear line for adults and minors, which features crotch coverage to help conceal private parts. However, Target’s CEO, Brian Cornell, has defended the line, calling it a good business decision that adds value and drives sales. Cornell has also stated that the company has no plans to drop the range amid accusations of indoctrinating and grooming children. While some have called for a boycott of Target, Cornell has stood by the company’s commitment to diversity and inclusion.
In an episode of Fortune’s ‘Leadership Next’ podcast last week, Cornell addressed the backlash the company has been receiving, saying, “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.” He then went on to continue, “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.”
Target has already confirmed that it will install gender-neutral bathrooms at all of its 1,800 locations throughout the United States to ensure inclusive bathroom access for all transgender customers and employees. Despite backlash from its loyal customers, however, Target will continue to allow transgender people to use the restroom that aligns with their gender identity while emphasizing safety. Target’s dedication to diversity and inclusion has been a topic of controversy in recent years.
In 2016, Target made controversy for its policy of allowing transgender people to use the restroom that aligns with their gender identity. However, Cornell confirmed that the company would not back down on its belief in diversity and inclusion. The installation of family restrooms at all Target locations is just one way that the company is working towards ensuring that all customers feel welcome and safe in their stores.
While Target’s “tuck-friendly” swimwear line may not be for everyone, Cornell believes that it is a good business decision that ultimately drives sales. Critics have accused the company of indoctrinating and grooming children with this line, but Cornell has stated that the range will remain in stores.
The controversy surrounding this line highlights the ongoing debate over LGBTQ+ representation in children’s clothing. However, Target’s commitment to diversity and inclusion remains unwavering, and the installation of family restrooms at all locations is just one example of how the company is working towards creating an inclusive environment for all customers.