Raoul Roßmann, CEO of the Rossmann drugstore chain, has publicly criticized the handling of competitor dm in the ongoing debate about the AfD. His remarks came during a conversation with Christoph Werner, the CEO of dm, featured in the latest issue of Zeit.
Controversy Over AfD Engagement
The controversy ignited last week when the Federal Association of Family Entrepreneurs invited AfD representatives to a parliamentary evening. This decision led to a backlash. Several companies, including Rossmann and appliance manufacturer Vorwerk, chose to withdraw from the association.
dm’s management expressed strong disapproval of politicizing their stance. Christoph Werner stated that political discussions should be based on content rather than exclusion and defamation.
Public Response
- Werner received numerous messages criticizing his stance, impacting the company’s social media channels.
- He noted that some accused dm of supporting AfD, emphasizing the negative impact of such allegations.
Common Ground Between Competitors
Roßmann echoed Werner’s sentiments, expressing frustration over the reduction of the debate to a conflict between Rossmann and dm. He pointed out that both companies share a history founded on mutual respect and friendship between their founders.
This public discourse highlights the complexities of business responses to political issues, illustrating the delicate balance companies must navigate in their public relations efforts.
