Full list of Black-owned brands to shop from this Black History Month
February will see greater focus on the experiences of Black people in the US, so why not use it as an opportunity to support Black-owned businesses.
February is Black History Month in the United States, a time when Americans are encouraged to learn about, reflect upon and support the experiences of Black people in the US. For many it’s a time to become better educated about the role of race in the nation’s history but there are also things to do which can help in contemporary America.
Between February and April 2020 the number of Black-owned businesses fell by 41% according to Wells Fargo, representing the steepest drop of any racial group. Much has been done to rebuild the affected businesses but Black Americans remain disproportionately disadvantaged by the pandemic.
This Black History Month, why not support some Black-owned businesses based in the US…
Black-owned beauty brands
The US cosmetic and beauty product industry is worth more than $44 billion a year and is predicted to continue growing in the coming years. For many of us these products become part of a daily routine and are difficult to replace, but why not see if any of the Black-owned alternatives work better for you?
- Briogeo
Black-owned fashion labels
Another area where customers tend to build up an affinity with certain brands is fashion, although the industry has long been criticised as resistant to diversity and inclusion. Retailers like Walmart and Target have committed to the 15 Percent Pledge, ensuring that at least 15% of their shelf space is dedicated to Black-owned businesses.
However this is far from common in the fashion industry, so here’s some exciting Black-owned brands to check out this month…
- Telfar
Black-owned homeware
Innovation and creativity are vital components of the most popular homeware brands but sometimes it can be difficult to steer clear of the major high street retailers. So whether you want to add a unique piece to your home or find the perfect house-warming gift for someone else’s, here’s some of the coolest Black-owned homeware businesses to check out…
- 54kibo
- AAKS
- Jungalow
- The Koop
- Lichen
Black-owned plant-based foods
Close to 10 million Americans have switched to a plant-based diet since 2004 and a survey named At the Table: The Multicultural Plant-Based Food Perspective found that vegan eating is on the rise in African-American, Asian-American, and Latin American communities.
Traditional African cuisine is often rich in vegetables and plant-based ingredients and there are many Black-owned businesses that offer plant-based food that is exciting and varied as well as healthy.
- Mother Earth Organic Vinegar
- Naturade