Founders Fallout: Local Bars and Shops React to Lawsuit

Founders Brewing Co. settled a racial discrimination lawsuit with a former employee last week, but not before one Founders manager, named in the lawsuit, claimed in a leaked deposition transcript that they “didn’t really see color.” The Founders’ Director of Diversity and Inclusion then resigned via a harshly worded letter, citing a work environment that had not changed during their tenure. While the lawsuit dates back to 2018, these revelations prompted some area bars, bottle shops, and restaurants to rethink their relationships with Founders. 

Local businesses stop selling Founders

We asked retailers and Founders’ distributor what they thought about the allegations of a former employee and the words of the recently resigned director of diversity and inclusion. Admittedly, the comments came before the settlement. We thought we’d share their answers and actions with you. 

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