U.S. toolmaker faces backlash over DEI hiring and LGBTQ lobbying

Stanley Black and Decker, a prominent U.S. toolmaker, is facing significant backlash for its commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives. The company aims to increase its minority suppliers by 10% within the next year and plans to allocate approximately $10.5 million to organizations focused on racial equity. Additionally, it has instituted mandatory equity training for senior employees, reflecting a broader trend among corporations to adopt socially responsible practices. The advocacy group Consumers' Research has reported that the company has also invested around $280,000 in lobbying efforts to support the Equality Act, which would permit transgender women to compete in women's sports. This move has drawn criticism from conservative groups, who argue that such actions prioritize political agendas over customer service. Will Hild, the director of Consumers' Research, has publicly stated that companies should concentrate on their customers rather than engage with what he terms 'woke politicians.' This sentiment has resonated with some consumers, leading to calls for a boycott of Stanley Black and Decker's products. The situation highlights the growing divide in public opinion regarding corporate social responsibility and DEI policies. As companies navigate these complex issues, they must balance their commitments to social equity with the potential backlash from segments of their customer base, which could impact their market performance and brand reputation.