Reflecting DE&I in brand content is only becoming more important

"The imperative for brands to reflect this rich tapestry of diversity in their content has never been more critical. In the contemporary corporate landscape, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) are not merely buzzwords but foundational elements of a robust business strategy, extending beyond workplace practices to the core of brand identity. The resonance of content - including marketing campaigns, social media engagement, and product design - with a diverse audience is pivotal."

"Social justice movements like Black Lives Matter and Stop Asian Hate profoundly impact consumer expectations. Brands are evaluated not just on product quality but also on the inclusivity of their content. According to the Edelman Trust Barometer, 53% of Americans expect brands to engage with social issues beyond direct business interests. Adding weight to this narrative, data from the Female Quotient shows that content that portrays diversity accurately can lead to a significant uptick in brand trust - as much as an 83% increase."

Brands must mirror societal diversity across marketing, social media, and product design to remain relevant and trusted. Major companies such as Procter & Gamble and General Motors are committing publicly to increase representation in advertising and align business goals with changing demographics. Social movements have raised consumer expectations, with a majority expecting brand engagement on social issues and accurate representation boosting brand trust substantially. Regulatory scrutiny from bodies like the US Federal Trade Commission is pushing for truthful, non-stereotypical portrayals. Investment in authentic DE&I content is both a reputational necessity and a strategic business advantage amid demographic and technological shifts.

Read at The Drum