Staff Reports
In a recent article, beer industry expert Harry Schuhmacher suggests that Bud Light’s troubles may be “quasi-permanent.” This comes after the company faced severe backlash for featuring transgender influencer Dylan Mulvaney in a promotion. The boycott against Bud Light appears to have had a lasting impact on the brand, with Schuhmacher predicting that loyal customers could be lost forever.
As a conservative, it’s refreshing to see the consequences of a major brand alienating its consumers. Bud Light’s decision to align with the “woke” crowd has clearly backfired, resulting in a significant drop in volume compared to last year. Schuhmacher’s assessment that the damage to Bud Light is “quasi-permanent” is a reminder that consumers have the power to hold companies accountable.
The promotion featuring Mulvaney was meant to celebrate “girlhood,” but many saw it as an attempt to push “gender propaganda.” This move not only eroded trust in the brand but also caused systemic damage within the industry. Bud Light’s failure to rebound from the backlash and regain consumer confidence is a clear indication of the brand’s downfall.
Even after receiving investment from mega-billionaire Bill Gates, Bud Light remains toxic. The company’s attempts to make amends with its customer base have been unsuccessful. Releasing patriotic ads and making statements about bringing people together over a beer have not been enough to win back the trust of consumers.
While Bud Light’s situation may be a cautionary tale for brands considering aligning with progressive ideologies, it’s important to note that not all brands face the same consequences. Companies like Target and Skittles, which have also faced right-wing boycotts, have not suffered as much damage as Bud Light. This suggests that conservative consumers have more power to hold brands accountable for their ideological stances.
Ultimately, Bud Light’s troubles should serve as a warning to other brands. Going “woke” may not always result in going broke, but it’s essential for companies to tread carefully and consider the values and beliefs of their target consumers before making divisive marketing decisions. As a conservative, it’s encouraging to see consumers exercising their power and influencing the decisions of major brands.
