TOMS controversies
Controversies tied to this brand in public sources. A listing is not a finding of fault.
Back to profile3 entries
2011
Founder apologizes after Focus on the Family appearance
Blake Mycoskie apologized after participating in an event sponsored by Focus on the Family, saying he had not known the organization’s positions and reaffirming support for equal human and civil rights.
2011
Criticism over Focus on the Family appearance
Blake Mycoskie faced criticism after appearing at an event sponsored by Focus on the Family. He apologized, said the organization had not been properly vetted, and reaffirmed support for equal human and civil rights.
Debate over the one-for-one donation model
Development specialists and researchers questioned whether donated shoes could undermine local producers, foster dependency, or turn poverty into a marketing device. Research findings were mixed and context-dependent, and TOMS modified its sourcing and giving approach over time.