In a recent interview, Chip Wilson, the creator of Lululemon, referred to his previous business’s “whole diversity and inclusion thing” as an attempt by the sportswear company to offer “everything to everybody.”
In an interview with Forbes that was published on Tuesday, Wilson stated, “They’re trying to become like the Gap, everything to everybody.” “And I believe that being everything to some people does not define a brand. You must make it obvious that you do not want to welcome certain clients.”
Additionally, he claimed that the company’s marketing models are “not inspiring,” “sickly,” and “unhealthy.”
After making contentious remarks claiming that Lululemon’s leggings are too tight for “some women’s bodies,” Wilson departed the firm in 2015.
Some people found his comment to be fatphobic. “It’s more really about the rubbing through the thighs, how much pressure is there over a period of time, how much they use it,” he continued.
Wilson made the remarks in response to complaints that the company’s expensive pants were transparent.
The “L” sound does not exist in the Japanese alphabet, so Wilson chose to name the company Lululemon because “it’s funny to watch them try and say it.” Wilson has also made other contentious remarks in the past. Along with attributing a higher divorce rate to birth control pills, he claimed in his book “Little Black Stretchy Pants” that he thought working was a viable alternative for certain Asian children whose parents were unable to send them to school.
Wilson, whose net worth is estimated by Forbes to be close to $8 billion, continues to own an 8% share in Lululemon and increased his wealth by around $4 billion in 2020 as a result of the company’s success.
In a statement provided to FOX Business, Lululemon stated: “Chip Wilson does not speak for Lululemon, and his remarks do not reflect the opinions or values of our firm. Since leaving the board in 2015, Chip has not been associated with the company, and it has undergone significant changes since then.”
The spokesman went on, “lululemon is dedicated to developing an atmosphere that is inclusive, diverse, and inviting both within our workplace and throughout our communities.Since establishing our Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Action (IDEA) function, we have come a long way, and we are proud of the accomplishments we have made.