Electronics company Sonos will be closing its flagship New York store in a powerful stance about the importance of supporting net neutrality. Partnering with Access Now, Future of Music Coalition, and Fight for the Future, this closing is meant to show music lovers the importance of net neutrality and to rally others to repeal the controversial rules set by the FCC. Joy Howard, CMO at Sonos, has explained her views on the subject and has explained the importance of supporting net neutrality for musicians and music lovers. Her arguments touch on the choice Internet users currently have and explains how important it is to maintain a free and open Internet.
The decision to promote net neutrality came as a means to strongly show the values of the company, and the choice in location was done in a deliberate manner as the Soho store as it would allow for plenty of publicity. Much of the signs plastered over the windows of the store direct people to battleforthenet.com, the current hub in the fight for net neutrality. Sonos is not the only brand to weigh-in on net neutrality, as Burger King also recently released an advertisement rallying against the FCC rules.
Company-Driven Political Protests
Sonos is Supporting Net Neutrality by Closing Its New York Store
Trend Themes
1. Net Neutrality Advocacy - More companies will take a stance on net neutrality, using store closings, online campaigns, and advertisements to express their views on the importance of a free and open internet.
2. Brand Activism - Companies will increasingly use their platforms to express their views on social and political issues, connecting with customers emotionally to build brand loyalty and reputation.
3. Collaborative Partnerships - Companies will collaborate with non-profits and advocacy groups to amplify their voice on social and political issues, creating a mutually beneficial relationship for social impact and brand promotion.
Industry Implications
1. Consumer Electronics - Companies in the consumer electronics industry can leverage their product platforms and customer base to promote net neutrality and other social/political issues for brand recognition and customer loyalty.
2. Retail - Companies in the retail industry can use their physical store locations and online presence to promote social and political issues and partner with advocacy groups for social impact and brand promotion.
3. Advertising - Companies in the advertising industry can help brands express their views on social and political issues through creative campaigns and messaging that resonates with the audience, building brand loyalty and reputation.