Lululemon criticised for promoting workshop on ‘resisting capitalism’ while selling yoga pants for £150

‘Says the overpriced, (capitalistic) active wear company,’ social media user writes

(Getty Images)

Lululemon is facing mockery claims for promoting a workshop teaching people how to “resist capitalism".

The high-end athleisure brand recently shared its weekly “Five to Follow” list on Instagram, with one image in the carousel featuring a graphic from yoga instructor and Lululemon brand ambassador Rebby Kern.

The graphic promoted an online “Decolonising Gender” workshop being held by Kern on 17 September, which is set to “unveil historical erasure and resist capitalism”.

The irony of the company, which is estimated to be worth more than $45 (£35) billion and sells yoga pants for up to £148, promoting such an event was not lost on social media users, with many calling out Lululemon for its double standards.

“It's absolutely hilarious to see a multinational company selling leggings that cost $80-$100 advertising ‘resisting capitalism’,” one person wrote.

Another commented: “What a joke! Resist capitalism?? 

“So you are going to start giving away clothes then and not charge 4X as much for basic leggings. Ridiculous!! Do whatever is politically correct to make the dollar.”

A third person agreed, adding: “That Lululemon would urge anyone to 'resist capitalism' is hilarious.”

This week, Lululemon revealed that its sales figures have soared during the coronavirus pandemic as more people swapped office attire for workout gear and yoga accessories.

According to CNBC, Lululemon shares are up by more than 51 per cent so far this year, giving it a market cap of $45.5 (£35.5) billion.

Calvin McDonald, CEO of the company, said it is “cautiously optimistic” about the rest of the year, with online sales up 157 per cent year-over-year and revenue rising to $902.9 (£705.8) million from $883.4 (£690.5) million a year earlier.

“We're pleased with our overall business results for the second quarter, as lululemon increasingly lives into its Omni potential,” McDonald said in a statement

“As trends around the world are shifting to working and sweating from home with an increased focus on health and wellness, we believe 2020 is likely an inflection point for retail and for lululemon.

“We are cautiously optimistic with regard to the second half of the year as we continue to navigate the uncertain environment.”

The Independent has contacted Lululemon for comment.