Why I Boycott Certain Businesses and Stop Regular Diners: A Personal Journey

As someone who values ethical business practices and experiences, my decision to stop patronizing certain establishments often stems from deeply considered reasons. Whether it's a pharmacy chain or my favorite restaurant, personal values and the overall customer experience play a significant role in my choices. In this article, I'll share my stories and the motivations behind boycotting businesses or stopping regular dines.

Dischem: A Case of Ethical Misconduct

Dischem, the largest pharmacy and cosmetics chain here, once held a dominant market position, reflecting its success in the industry. However, it was a board resolution leaked about 2.5 years ago that shocked and disappointed me. The resolution stated that no white person would be promoted, and no white candidates would be considered for a job. This decision affected a significant portion of the customer base, as at least 80% of the franchise's customers are white.

This unethical practice, which would have a lasting impact on the community and the workforce's diversity, is why I no longer spend my money with Dischem. From time to time, I reaffirm my decision on their Facebook page, emphasizing my stance against such discrimination. I believe that businesses should reflect the diversity of their customers and promote equity for all, regardless of race.

Gails: Unristol Founder and Politics

My boycott of Gails, a popular restaurant chain, is largely due to the deeply personal and divisive political stance of its major owner, Luke Johnson. Johnson's enthusiasm for Brexit raises questions about personal values and corporate responsibility. While I do enjoy the delicious dough and pastry-based comestibles offered by Gails, the principles of my boycott are clear: a business does not have the right to support policies that I fundamentally disagree with or that harm marginalized groups.

However, I’ve learned to live without the specific enjoyment of Gails, knowing that there are other options available. Other croissants, as they say, are indeed available, and diverse culinary experiences are essential to a rich cultural diet.

Food Quality and Cleanliness: A Lesson in Restaurants

I’ve encountered restaurants that were once favorites but didn’t meet my standards for cleanliness or quality. For example, one local restaurant was known for its filth in the ceiling. The idea that these establishments would allow such unsanitary conditions to persist has made me more discerning about dining locations. If cleanliness plays a significant role in a business, it should be a top priority, as it reflects the company culture and its commitment to quality and hygiene.

Food Preparedness and Health: Experiences with Food Poisoning

On numerous occasions, I’ve suffered from food poisoning, attributing it to the last meal I consumed. This not only impacts my health but also my trust in the establishment. When a restaurant can't even ensure that its food is prepared correctly or that all the necessary ingredients are included, it compromises my decision to continue patronizing them. In the case of Moe's, the discontinued toppings, incorrect orders, and the introduction of new allergens led to a significant drop in the quality of their dishes, ultimately leading to a decision to stop ordering from them altogether.

By leaving Moe's, I not only saved my health but also shifted my focus to replicating and improving the dishes I previously enjoyed. The process of learning to make the dishes myself, with the added benefit of home-cooked meals, was a rewarding process. This shift also reflected a broader perspective on corporate responsibility and personal well-being.

Conclusion

In conclusion, my decisions to boycott certain businesses or stop regular dining are rooted in values of ethical conduct, health, and personal well-being. Whether it's not supporting DISCHEM due to discriminatory practices, avoiding GAILS due to the personal politics of its owner, or stopping at Moe's after food quality issues, my choices are deliberate and informed. By supporting businesses that align with these values, we can contribute to a more equitable and healthy society.