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Retailers Make “Brands That Matter” Roster

American Eagle Outfitters, Lowe’s and Petco among those on the list.

Published

2 months ago

October 4, 2023

INSTORE Staff

Retailers Make “Brands That Matter” Roster

Lowe’s was among the retailers included on Fast Company’s list. PHOTOGRAPHY: Jillian Cain/iStock.com

Fast Company’s latest “Brands That Matter” list recognizes companies in all industries leading the way on social action, sustainability, inclusivity and fun. Among the 165 businesses to make that roster are the following retailers and restaurant chains, followed by a brief blurb by FC on why each made the list.

AMERICAN EAGLE OUTFITTERS
The teen-focused apparel retailer meets its customers on emerging social media apps and supports their mental health.

LOWE’S
Taking the “home” in home improvement to heart, Lowe’s has invested millions in affordable housing and funded home repairs.

McDONALD’S
The fast-food giant’s “Thank You Crew” campaign celebrated U.S. employees, while Ronald McDonald House helped workers in Ukraine.

PETCO
By adding vet clinics to stores and encouraging employee education, Petco is positioning itself as more than a retailer.

POPEYE’S LOUISIANA KITCHEN
Not ready to be a one-hit wonder, the chain unveiled its latest chicken sandwich with a sponsorship of designer LeQuan Smith’s Met Gala after-party.

Click here for the full list.

When There’s No Succession Plan, Call Wilkerson

Bob Wesley, owner of Robert C. Wesley Jewelers in Scottsdale, Ariz., was a third-generation jeweler. When it was time to enjoy life on the other side of the counter, he weighed his options. His lease was nearing renewal time and with no succession plan, he decided it was time to call Wilkerson. There was plenty of inventory to sell and at first, says Wesley, he thought he might try to manage a sale himself. But he’s glad he didn’t. “There’s no way I could have done this as well as Wilkerson,” he says. Wilkerson took responsibility for the entire event, with every detail — from advertising to accounting — done, dusted and managed by the Wilkerson team. “It’s the complete package,” he says of the Wilkerson method of helping jewelers to easily go on to the next phase of their lives. “There’s no way any retailer can duplicate what they’ve done.”