Toronto indie rock fans were undoubtedly excited when Field Trip announced its 2018 lineup earlier this month, but some had their anticipation turn to disappointment when they saw that the fest had partnered with Nestlé. Responding to the backlash, the festival has now cut ties with the enormous food corporation.
Despite the lovable chocolate bunny that hawks their goods, Nestlé has emerged as an incredibly controversial company over the years. As a boycott site explains, it has been accused of stealing water from natural reserves in Southern Ontario. It has also been accused of knowingly using child labour and nefarious marketing practices.
Dozens of Field Trip fans took to social media to voice their concerns about its partnership with the company. In a response to a Facebook thread, the festival's official page said, "we appreciate your feedback and respectfully consider your concerns as they pertain to Field Trip."
Now, organizers have doubled down on their promise, officially cutting ties with Nestlé:
Field Trip takes place at Toronto's Fort York & Garrison Common on June 2 and 3. The lineup includes performances from Metric, Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Bahamas, Alvvays, Japandroids, Deer Tick, the Barr Brothers and many others.
Learn about the festival's history with Exclaim!'s festival profile.
Despite the lovable chocolate bunny that hawks their goods, Nestlé has emerged as an incredibly controversial company over the years. As a boycott site explains, it has been accused of stealing water from natural reserves in Southern Ontario. It has also been accused of knowingly using child labour and nefarious marketing practices.
Dozens of Field Trip fans took to social media to voice their concerns about its partnership with the company. In a response to a Facebook thread, the festival's official page said, "we appreciate your feedback and respectfully consider your concerns as they pertain to Field Trip."
Now, organizers have doubled down on their promise, officially cutting ties with Nestlé:
Dear Field Trip fans,
— Field Trip (@FieldTrip) March 13, 2018
We have heard all of your feedback and concerns as they pertain to Field Trip's sponsorship arrangements with Nestle. As a result, Nestle will no longer be a partner of Field Trip 2018. We hope to see you June 2 & 3.
Field Trip takes place at Toronto's Fort York & Garrison Common on June 2 and 3. The lineup includes performances from Metric, Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Bahamas, Alvvays, Japandroids, Deer Tick, the Barr Brothers and many others.
Learn about the festival's history with Exclaim!'s festival profile.