People across America are threatening to boycott Publix Supermarkets in response to fundraising by a member of the company’s founding family for ex-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 Trump donor and heir to the billion-dollar supermarket chain, contributed $ 300,000 to the rally – the lion’s share of the money needed to finance the rally – a move to boycott the company launched quickly.
The Guardian reported on Monday that for many, “the decades-long love affair” with the Florida-based supermarket chain “is over.” Disgruntled former customers, already upset with the company for their support of Florida Republican governor Ron DeSantis, accused the supermarket chain of voluntarily funding the violence.
“It was the last straw,” said a customer. “Capitol insurrection, images of the policeman with his head being crushed, individuals dressed as Vikings in the Senate floor. … We won’t call this normal. They are a private company and it’s their business how they want to contribute their money but it is also my right to decide where I want to spend my money. “
With the news, Publix issued a statement distancing himself from Fancelli, saying: “Mrs. Fancelli is not an employee of Publix Super Markets, is not involved in our business operations, nor does she represent the company in any way.
“The violence at the Capitol on January 6 was a national tragedy. The deplorable actions that occurred that day do not represent the values, work or opinions of Publix Supermarkets, ”added the company.
But then the hashtag #BoycottPublix it was already a trend on Twitter. Dozens of commentators on the platform announced that they would no longer be giving their money to the supermarket chain and invited others to join them in shopping elsewhere.
“Whole Foods here I come!” a boycott wrote.
Other said, “Last week, I spent> $ 250 on Publix. This week, Fresh Market.”
Another boycott proclaimed, “I stopped going to Publix the minute this story came out! They won’t get a dime from me so they can turn around and donate to names like Trump. “
Still, several others scoffed at the boycott and vowed to continue shopping at their beloved grocery store, which operates about 1,200 stores in seven southeastern states and is known for its exceptional, buy-a-take-a-free customer service salesand delicious sandwiches.
Many predicted that this boycott – like the one that was tried last year against Goya Foods – would backfire. Only time will tell.