Even as Brexit, a contentious U.S. presidential race and turmoil in emerging markets highlight a sense of fear among electorates, Unilever chief Paul Polman says consumers and investors are increasingly attracted to brands that address social issues in a positive way.
The U.K.’s vote to leave the European Union mirrors support for Donald Trump’s U.S. presidential candidacy in that both represent people “running away from something” rather than supporting a particular policy or issue, Polman said in an interview in London. Political upheaval in Brazil, another key market for consumer-goods companies like Unilever, has added to marketers’ concerns.
