People across America are reportedly threatening to boycott Publix Super Markets in response to a member of the company’s founding family fundraiser for former President Trump’s “Stop the Steal” rally in Washington, DC last month.
After it was revealed by the Wall Street Journal that Julie Jenkins Fancelli, a prominent donor to Trump and heiress to the multi-billion dollar retailer, contributed a hefty $ 300,000 to the rally – the lion’s share of the money needed to fund the rally – a movement to boycott the company was quickly launched.
The Guardian reported Monday that for many, “the decades-long love affair” with the Florida-based supermarket chain was “over”. Dissatisfied former customers were already upset with the company over its support for the Republican Florida government, Ron DeSantis, accused the supermarket chain of voluntarily funding violence.
“It was the last straw,” said one customer. “Uprising in the Capitol, images of the police officer with his head crushed, individuals dressed as Vikings on the floor of the Senate … We’re not going to call this normal. They’re a private company and it’s their companies how they want to contribute their money but it is also my right to decide what to spend my dollars on. “
When the news broke, Publix came out a statement distances herself from Fancelli by saying, “Ms. Fancelli is not an employee of Publix Super Markets and is not involved in our business activities, nor does she represent the company in any way.
“The violence in the Capitol on January 6 was a national tragedy. The regrettable actions that took place that day do not represent the values, work or opinions of Publix Super Markets,” the company added.
But by then is the hashtag #BoycottPublix was already trending on Twitter. Numerous commentators on the platform announced that they would no longer be giving their money to the supermarket chain and called on others to do their shopping elsewhere with them.
“Whole Foods Here I Come!” a boycotter wrote
Another said“Last week, I spent over $ 250 on Publix. This week, Fresh Market.”
Another boycotter exclaimedI stopped going to Publix once this story came out! They don’t get a penny from me, so they can turn around and donate to people like Trump. “
Still, several others scoffed at the boycott and pledged to continue shopping at their beloved grocer, which operates some 1,200 stores in seven southeastern states and is known for exceptional customer service, buy-one-get-one-free sale, and delicious subs.
Many predicted that this boycott – like the one attempted against Goya Foods last year – would eventually backfire. Time will tell.