In a groundbreaking moment for the advertising industry, the Unstereotype Alliance, convened by UN Women, has released a global study demonstrating the significant business value of inclusive advertising. Conducted in collaboration with Oxford University’s Saïd Business School and powered by data from leading companies such as Unilever, Bayer Consumer Health, and Mars, the research highlights the transformative impact of ads that authentically and positively portray diverse people while avoiding harmful stereotypes.
The study, which analyzed 392 brands across 58 countries, provides compelling evidence of the commercial benefits of inclusive advertising:
These results debunk the myth that inclusivity negatively impacts business performance. Instead, they demonstrate that fostering diverse representation drives not only immediate sales but also long-term brand equity, customer preference, and market competitiveness.
“These findings prove what many of us have long believed—that inclusive advertising isn’t just the right thing to do; it’s a business imperative,” said Sara Denby, head of the Unstereotype Alliance Secretariat. “This irrefutable data should encourage brands to embrace inclusivity, benefiting both their communities and their bottom lines.”
The report further shows that the positive impact of inclusive advertising spans a wide range of product categories, including personal care, snacks, alcohol, and pet care. Industry leaders such as Esi Eggleston Bracey, Chief Growth and Marketing Officer at Unilever, emphasized how inclusive campaigns have fueled creativity and delivered strong results, citing campaigns for Dove and LUX as key examples.
As businesses incorporate these insights, the study sets a new standard for advertising, proving that diversity and representation are not optional but essential strategies for growth, relevance, and resilience in today’s market.
For a deeper dive into the study, visit Unstereotype Alliance.
Source - unstereotypealliance.org