In a recent official communication, adidas, the renowned sportswear company, revealed its plans to make available a portion of the remaining inventory of adidas YEEZY products. The initial release, scheduled for the end of May 2023, will exclusively be accessible through adidas.com/yeezy and the adidas CONFIRMED app. This move comes after the termination of the YEEZY partnership in October 2022, and it aims to address the company's inventory situation while making a positive impact on society. Additionally, adidas has decided to donate a significant amount of the released inventory to selected organizations combating discrimination and hate, particularly racism and antisemitism.
The Decision Process
Adidas took considerable time to carefully consider various scenarios for the remaining YEEZY inventory. Seeking input from a diverse range of stakeholders, including employees, organizations, communities, and consumers, the company was committed to responsibly managing these products. Ultimately, the preferred option that emerged from these discussions was to sell and donate the inventory. This decision not only respects the creative designs and produced shoes but also safeguards the interests of supply chain partners who would have been negatively affected by cancellations.
Adidas Takes a Stand Against Hate
With a strong stance against hate in sport and society, adidas CEO Bjørn Gulden emphasized the company's commitment to combating discrimination. By making the YEEZY inventory available and contributing to organizations that fight against hate, adidas aims to generate a positive impact within communities. The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) and the Philonise & Keeta Floyd Institute for Social Change are among the organizations set to benefit from adidas' donations. This proactive step by adidas has been praised by the ADL, highlighting the company's thoughtfulness in addressing the rising levels of antisemitism and its support for education and other initiatives to combat prejudice and hate.
A Positive Outcome
Adidas acknowledges that the decision to release the remaining YEEZY inventory is driven, in part, by the need to recoup their investment. However, the company has taken a principled approach by ensuring that this decision also aligns with their commitment to social responsibility. By transforming a potentially negative situation into a positive outcome, adidas demonstrates its dedication to its people, the communities it serves, and the fight against hate.
Long-Term Impact and Partnerships
In an effort to leave a lasting legacy and foster positive change, adidas has announced a partnership with the Philonise & Keeta Floyd Institute for Social Change. Named after Philonise Floyd, the brother of George Floyd, this institute aims to drive community programs through sport and education. By working together, adidas and the Philonise & Keeta Floyd Institute for Social Change strive to make a meaningful impact, using sport as a catalyst for positive social transformation.
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adidas' decision to release a portion of the remaining YEEZY inventory represents a significant step toward responsibly managing their stock while combatting discrimination and hate. By partnering with organizations such as the ADL and the Philonise & Keeta Floyd Institute for Social Change, adidas aims to make a positive impact on society. This move demonstrates the company's commitment to its values and their belief that there is no place in sport or society for any form of hate. Through this initiative, adidas sets an example for other public companies, highlighting the importance of engaging with communities and addressing pressing issues that require collective action.