REWE Group stands for these values - beyond national borders. That is why we are supporting national and international Pride events again this year.Hugo Winkels, Management Board member of Cologne Prides, DITO spokesperson Frank Bartels and Markus Kuntke, member of the international DITO network, explain why this is important right now.
Diversity is an integral part of REWE Group's corporate culture, which we promote with determination - even in challenging times. While other companies are currently reducing their diversity activities, we are continuing our commitment to equality and acceptance all the more resolutely.
REWE Group also stands for diversity, acceptance and equality beyond national borders. To emphasise this stance, we are once again supporting national and international Pride events this year. in 2025, REWE Group will be active at six German locations at Christopher Street Days (CSD) and will be involved in local Pride events at three international locations in Austria, Italy and Slovakia.
Hugo Winkels, Management Board member of Cologne Pride, explains why this is important right now: "Especially in these times, REWE Group's support of the CSD is enormously important. While homophobia is on the rise both nationally and internationally, REWE is sending an important signal as a company for its employees and customers. This long-standing collaboration shows what is possible when a company really stands behind these values. Thank you."
Frank Bartels
Frank Bartels, Head of Event & Travel Management and spokesperson for our LGBTIQ+ network DITO, is also concerned about the global developments and emphasises the importance of continuing the commitment with determination, especially at this time: "The immediate termination of diversity programmes in the USA has also reached well-known companies in Germany. It remains to be hoped that the majority of companies will not be intimidated by the pressure from Washington. If we look to Europe, a pattern is also recognisable here: the legal rights of the LGTBIQ community are being systematically undermined under the pretext of "protecting public order". Each and every one of us should remain vigilant here, as these measures pave the way for far-reaching restrictions on fundamental freedoms such as freedom of assembly and freedom of expression. In only a few countries, including Germany and Austria, have legislators strengthened the legal rights of LGBTIQ people. However, the fact that the number of homophobic attacks increased by 24 per cent in the previous year should not be overlooked. From a legal perspective, many things may be fine, but the reality on the streets speaks a different language. That is why Christopher Street Days (CSD) are indispensable this year, as they take place at a time when many of the achievements of the LGBTIQ movement are under pressure worldwide and the legal rights that have been fought for must be protected and further strengthened."
Our commitment to diversity and tolerance is not only important in Germany. We also continue to resolutely uphold our values at a European level and therefore support local Pride events in three other countries - Austria, Italy and Slovakia.
Markus Kuntke
"At REWE Group, we embrace diversity in all countries in which we operate. Diversity is an integral part of our corporate culture and we are actively committed to inclusion and diversity. With our REWE initiative DITO, we actively promote the visibility and legal rights of LGBTQIA+ people. I am looking forward to the start of Pride Month, which raises awareness of the legal rights of LGBTQIA+ people, celebrates diversity and supports the fight against discrimination and injustice," says Markus Kuntke, Senior Trend and Innovation Manager at REWE International AG and member of the international DITO network. He emphasises the relevance of a tolerant and inclusive corporate culture: "Our employees are our greatest strength, and we value the individual contributions that each and every one of them can make to diversity in our company. Together, we strive to create a working environment in which everyone feels comfortable, respected and valued. Diversity not only enriches us, but also the entire company and our customers."
If you are interested in taking part in one of the Christopher Street Days on a float or in the foot group, click here for more information.
