When companies fail to understand the nuances of the experiences and expectations of their Black customers, they can end up making bland statements of support around holidays or take an action that backfires by betraying their lack of insight. For example, Bath & Body Works faced charges of cultural appropriation during Black History Month this year when it repackaged existing products—including watermelon-scented candles—in designs intended to represent traditional African art.
What Can Brands Do?
To understand Black consumers, companies need to acknowledge and meet their discrete diversity, equity, and inclusion needs. First, they must recognize the way these needs manifest in a desire for other attributes, such as value, convenience, and quality. Second, companies should understand how these needs vary depending on the product or industry—and, importantly, on the social status of the customer. And third, they must tailor marketing strategies and solutions to appeal to these specific needs, incorporating tactics to drive long-term engagement.
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