Costco is pushing back against activist shareholders who seek to end its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies, highlighting their role in fostering a positive workplace and enhancing customer experiences. The company’s board rejected a proposal from the National Center for Public Policy Research, which criticized Costco's DEI efforts as potentially discriminatory. Costco defended its initiatives as legal and beneficial, emphasizing their role in attracting diverse talent, improving customer interactions, and maintaining its "treasure hunt" shopping experience. Amid growing pressures against DEI from conservative groups and political figures, Costco remains committed to these practices, diverging from other companies modifying or scaling back DEI programs.

Source: CNN Business (December 27, 2024)