Bud Light faces backlash, sales decline over transgender influencer partnership
- Bud Light partnered with transgender influencer Dylan Mulvaney, angering some conservative customers and leading to calls for a boycott.
- Bud Light's sales and pours at restaurants have declined substantially, and two marketing executives have taken a leave of absence.
- While some experts say inclusive marketing is important for reaching younger consumers, the brand may have miscalculated the potential for backlash.
- Bud Light now plans to spend heavily on marketing to win back customers, but building trust and balancing a divided base will likely take time.
- The situation highlights the challenges companies face in taking a stand on social issues or partnering with influencers in today's polarized climate.