What: A new framework built around fairness, access, inclusion, and representation (FAIR) emerges as retailers move away from conventional DEI practices, focusing on measurable results and systemic changes rather than symbolic initiatives.

Why it is important: This strategic pivot responds to the dual challenge of maintaining inclusive workplaces while addressing criticism of conventional DEI approaches, offering retailers a practical framework for achieving meaningful organisational change.

The evolution from traditional DEI practices to a FAIR framework represents a significant shift in how organisations approach workplace equity. With 91% of workers reporting discrimination experiences and only 52% supporting current DEI approaches, this new framework addresses fundamental workplace challenges through measurable outcomes rather than symbolic gestures. The FAIR model emphasises systemic changes in four key areas: fairness in success opportunities and discrimination protection, access to full participation across all environments, inclusion that ensures respect and safety for all identities, and representation that goes beyond demographics to focus on advocating for diverse needs. This approach moves away from individual-centered, isolated interventions toward coalition-driven, systems-focused solutions that benefit all stakeholders while maintaining accountability for measurable progress.

IADS Notes:The retail industry's evolution toward a FAIR framework is evidenced by recent strategic shifts among major players. On November 28, 2024, Walmart pioneered a significant transformation by removing explicit DEI language while maintaining core inclusion practices, demonstrating a shift toward outcomes-based approaches. This was followed by contrasting responses in the first week of January 2025, when Costco chose to maintain its traditional DEI policies despite activist pressure, while other retailers sought middle ground. By January 13, 2025, Amazon's decision to rebrand its diversity initiatives under "Inclusive eXperiences and Technology" further validated the article's emphasis on focusing on measurable results rather than terminology. These developments collectively illustrate the retail industry's move toward the article's proposed framework of fairness, access, inclusion, and representation, with companies increasingly prioritising tangible outcomes over symbolic gestures.

What comes after DEI