Al Aqsa storm brought with it a rejuvenation of boycott divestment sanction (BDS) movement, with people from all walks of life adopting stances against companies they believe were connected to Zionists. These actions were not just about economics—they were deeply personal, fuelled by feelings of solidarity with the Palestinian resistance, anger at the Zionists, and desire for justice to be served against them. Across social media and in everyday conversations, calls to boycott certain brands grew louder, putting pressure on businesses to clarify their values and alliances.
This article aims to recap the 10 business brands most affected by BDS. From fast food giants to household names, these brands faced not just financial losses but a shift in popular perception. More than a mere business trend —it also highlighted the power of collective action and power of choices made by ordinary people to make a statement in times of crisis.
Globally, Muslim community represents a significant and growing market, with an estimated 1.9 billion people making up a large portion of the world’s consumers. Muslims, often unified by shared values and, generally, a higher commitment to justice, have been seen increasingly using their purchasing power to influence companies and persuade them align with their principles. As a result, the impact of BDS is not only felt locally but resonates on a global scale, reflecting power of conscious consumerism towards corporate change.
- McDonald’s
For many, McDonald’s isn’t just a fast food chain—it’s a symbol of convenience, comfort, and family. But when McDonald’s was accused of supporting Israeli soldiers by offering free meals, it became a source of division. For countless Muslims, this felt like a betrayal. The calls for a boycott weren’t just about refusing a burger; they were about standing up for something much bigger—justice. Across the world, from Egypt to Malaysia, people chose not just to avoid a meal but to send a message that actions matter. McDonald’s, a global icon, has since found itself facing the consequences of not aligning with the values of millions of people. - Starbucks
Starbucks is more than just coffee. For many, it represents a moment of escape, a space to relax, or even a daily ritual. But when allegations arose that Starbucks had financial ties to Israel, it felt like a betrayal to those who had come to trust the brand. Across the globe, especially in the Middle East, Muslims rallied together in boycotting what was once a favorite. The boycott wasn’t just about a cup of coffee—it was a way to show that brands can’t ignore the values of their diverse customer base. This boycott served as a reminder to companies everywhere: people are watching, and their loyalty isn’t a given. - Coca-Cola
Coca-Cola has been part of life for generations. Whether at a birthday party, family gathering, or casual hangout, it’s the drink of choice for millions. However, when the boycott calls surfaced, it wasn’t just about a soda anymore. The brand, with its decades-long history, became a point of contention due to its perceived ties with Israel. In many countries, including Pakistan and Egypt, people began turning away from Coca-Cola, choosing local alternatives. This wasn’t a decision about taste; it was a decision rooted in the desire for justice and a stand against perceived complicity in global conflicts. - PepsiCo
Like Coca-Cola, Pepsi has been a staple in the homes of millions. It’s more than just a soft drink; it’s a companion to movie nights, celebrations, and even quiet moments. But with growing calls for boycotts, Pepsi was dragged into the larger political narrative surrounding the Gaza conflict. For many, Pepsi became a symbol of corporate indifference to the struggles they felt deeply. As Muslim consumers around the world shifted their loyalty, Pepsi was forced to face a reality: it couldn’t ignore the voices of those who had once embraced it. - Nestlé
Nestlé, with its global reach and an extensive range of products, has touched millions of lives. From baby food to chocolates, it’s been a brand that many trust. However, Nestlé’s ties to Osem, an Israeli company, led to calls for a boycott. For Muslim communities worldwide, this became more than just a corporate link—it became a matter of ethics. Boycotting Nestlé was a way to hold the company accountable for its connections. This boycott wasn’t about the quality of the products—it was a reflection of a larger movement where consumers were not willing to ignore the impact of corporate ties to controversial issues. - Nike
Nike is synonymous with sports, empowerment, and performance. The brand that once embodied the spirit of “Just Do It” now finds itself facing backlash. When allegations of Nike’s refusal to allow Palestinian solidarity messages or its perceived connections to Israel surfaced, it put the company at odds with a large segment of its customer base. For many, this wasn’t just about a pair of sneakers—it was about standing up for what’s right. The Nike boycott served as a wake-up call for a brand that had built its reputation on inclusivity and empowerment: consumers care deeply about how their favorite brands align with their values. - Pizza Hut
Pizza Hut has been a go-to for families seeking comfort food. But when it was accused of supporting Israel, the love for this global pizza chain began to sour for many. For Muslims, boycotting Pizza Hut wasn’t just about pizza—it was about making a statement that their voices couldn’t be ignored. As the boycott gained traction, many shifted to local pizza chains, where they felt their money would be better spent supporting businesses aligned with their values. - Burger King
Burger King, like its rival McDonald’s, has been a staple of fast food culture. But when allegations arose linking the company to Israel, many people began to look at their meal choices differently. The boycott of Burger King was less about the burgers themselves and more about sending a message that consumer power could shape the corporate world. For many, this was a stand for justice—a way to hold brands accountable for their global influence and their potential complicity in conflicts far away. - Procter & Gamble
Procter & Gamble is the brand behind household names like Tide, Pampers, and Gillette. But when calls to boycott P&G surfaced, it wasn’t just about the products. P&G became part of a larger narrative about corporate responsibility. For Muslims, the company’s perceived ties to Israel were enough to drive them to seek alternatives. The boycott wasn’t about the quality of P&G’s products—it was about standing up for what they believed in. This incident illustrated how deeply people feel about where their money goes and how it can be a powerful tool for change. - Unilever
Unilever, known for brands like Dove, Lipton, and Hellmann’s, has a global presence in homes worldwide. But when the brand’s ties to Israel came under scrutiny, many of its loyal customers began to reconsider. For Muslim consumers, it was a moment to make a powerful statement about where they spend their money. Unilever, like many others, found itself at the center of a conversation about corporate ethics, consumer rights, and the intersection of business and politics.
