Lululemon Founder Slams Inclusion: “We’re Missing the Mark!

In a recent Q&A session with shareholders, lululemon founder Chip Wilson made some controversial remarks about the popular athleisure clothing company’s approach to diversity and inclusion. Wilson spoke frankly about his dissatisfaction for the company’s lack of progress in this area, despite public commitments to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Wilson questioned why lululemon had yet to make significant headway when it came to DEI initiatives, despite it being a high priority for the company: “We’ve put so much money into this whole diversity and inclusion thing. And I question: diversity for what?” Wilson went on to state that lululemon had been unable to achieve its objectives when it came to DEI, such as setting targets for female representation in the executive team or formulating systems for dealing with bias and ensuring fairness in recruitment and promotions. Wilson went on to describe his disappointment at the lack of progress, adding that it was difficult to see the tangible outcomes from the money spent in this area. “We went and did a whole bunch of consultants, and we spent a lot of money,” he said. “The outcome is, what can you point to? It’s hard to show those statistics and numbers… Protectionism has been worse for minorities and women in the clothing business.” In a statement released from lululemon CEO Calvin McDonald soon after, he expressed his support for DEI and his hope to find progress in when it comes to making lululemon “a workplace of choice for all.” McDonald went on to address Wilson’s comments directly, stating, “Chip Wilson recently made misinformed remarks regarding lululemon’s approach to DEI that do not align with our values, beliefs, and practices. We regret these misinformed comments.” The statement further reinforced the company’s commitment to drive meaningful change and promote a diverse and inclusive environment with lasting, tangible results. It’s clear that lululemon, under its new leadership, is doubling down on its commitment to creating a diverse, inclusive corporate culture and workplace. However, what Chip Wilson confusedly observed was that lululemon still has a long way to go to realize its DEI goals. For the sake of the company, its employees, and shareholders, the brand must continue to invest in meaningful change and tangible results.