Reply #9: A successful boycott: The Coors beer boycott started in the 60s

[iamtechus]

Back in the day (60s), there was a very successful boycott of Coors Beer. It had both political and racial backing and their products became very uncool. Even if one didn't sympathize with its backers it was known to be unwise (maybe even dangerous!) to order a Coors beer in public, at least in Colorado. The following is from Yahoo Answers:

Coors anti-union reputation stems from a long, contentious relationship with labor at the brewery. The troubles were largely driven by strong personalities in the company and in the union. The boycott actually started with the union’s support, inspired by Cesar Chavez’s lettuce boycott, and was a powerful tool in bringing Coors to the table. When concessions were made by the company, the boycott lost much of its official backing...but some people apparently never got the word.

Coors was charged with racial discrimination against Hispanics in 1969 and forced to pay back salaries. Hispanics joined the union boycott. However, in similar fashion to their "getting it" with gay employees, Coors has put tons of money into not only hiring Hispanics, but supporting Hispanic causes and the general Hispanic community. Again, despite these efforts, some Hispanics continue the boycott.

http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20100425084037AAPuk75