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Retailers Make “Brands That Matter” Roster

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

Published

2 weeks 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.

“Every One of Them Said, ‘Go with Wilkerson.’”

There are times when decisions must be made. For Joe Cheslock, owner of Sycamore Jewelers in Midlothian, VA for the past 25 years, the time had come. He had to decide whether to renew a five-year lease. Instead, he called Wilkerson to handle his store’s going-out-of-business sale. Why did he select Wilkerson? “I talked to retailers from around the country to get their advice. Every one of them said, ‘Go with Wilkerson.’” And he’s glad he did. Cheslock says he was amazed by Wilkerson’s organization and attention to detail. Of course, as a store owner, it was hard to let others do the heavy lifting, but he’s glad he did. “Wilkerson did everything they said they would and more. They follow through and they’re respected in the industry. I now see why.”