The Bud Light situation has actually gotten worse for Anheuser-Busch, as frustrated former employees reveal the company’s mishandling of the backlash it faced after partnering with transgender influencer Dylan Mulvaney. The beer company’s sales have plummeted nearly 30% since last May, when they sent customized beer cans to Mulvaney to celebrate her “365 days of girlhood.” Former employees accused the company’s leadership of responding with panic and rash decisions, leaving them worried for Mulvaney’s welfare and their own job security. Despite initial defense of their campaign, Anheuser-Busch eventually distanced itself from the controversy, stating that they never intended to divide people. However, their response was criticized for lacking empathy and transparency. The company’s lack of diversity at the top level was also pointed out by employees, who believed that a more diverse leadership might have handled the situation better. Experts suggest that the damage to Anheuser-Busch’s reputation may be long-lasting, with long-time consumers potentially lost forever. The company has already announced layoffs and is expected to face declining sales in the foreseeable future.
