Bay Area-based Philz Coffee reversing course, adding Pride flags back to all of its locations
ABC7 San Francisco • • business
Key Points:
- Philz Coffee has decided to reinstate Pride flags at all of its 82 locations following backlash over its earlier decision to remove them in an effort to create "an inclusive experience."
- CEO Mahesh Sadarangani issued a public apology, acknowledging the mistake and emphasizing the Pride flag as a symbol of safety and belonging for the LGBTQIA+ community.
- Sadarangani met with San Francisco Pride leaders, including trans women Suzanne Ford and Jupiter Peraza, to discuss the issue and committed to keeping Pride flags displayed in all stores.
- Moving forward, Philz plans to feature locally created artwork in each store that reflects the diverse voices of its team members and surrounding communities.
- San Francisco Pride Executive Director Suzanne Ford praised the CEO's humility and genuine engagement, expressing hope for Philz's continued allyship amid a challenging climate for LGBTQIA+ individuals.
