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Retailers Make “Brands That Matter” Roster

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

Published

1 year 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.

You Wouldn’t Cut Your Own Hair. Why Run Your Own Retirement Sale?

After being in business for over a quarter of a century, Wayne Reid, owner of Wayne Jewelers in Wayne, Pennsylvania, decided it was time for a little “me time.” He says, “I’ve reached a point in my life where it’s time to slow down, enjoy a lot of things outside of the jewelry industry. It just seemed to be the right time.” He chose Wilkerson to handle his retirement sale because of their reputation and results. With financial goals exceeded, Reid says he made the right choice selecting Wilkerson to handle the sale. “They made every effort to push our jewelry to the forefront of the showcases,” he says, lauding Wilkerson for their finesse and expertise. Would he recommend them to other jewelers who want to make room for new merchandise, expand their business or like him, decide to call it a day? Absolutely he says, equating trying to do this kind of sale with cutting your own hair. “The results are going to happen but not as well as if you have a professional like Wilkerson do the job for you.”