FAMOUS LOCAL ENTREPRENEUR TAKES NATIONAL STAND IN SUPPORT OF VIOLA DAVIS |
“She is where I am going. That is a clear indicator.” |
Houston entrepreneur LaMont “The Water King” Gilbert says a major expansion opportunity with Target was put on pause after he saw the national controversy surrounding a Halloween costume critics said evoked racist imagery — and Viola Davis’ public rejection of Target’s apology. For Gilbert, the moment became bigger than one retailer. It became about direction. “Viola Davis has reached a level of success, influence and respect that I’m still building toward. If someone standing where I’m trying to go sees enough in this situation to take a public stand, that is a clear indicator for me to pay attention.” Gilbert, founder of Absolutely Amazing Alkaline H₂O™, says the company had been preparing to expand through Target as part of its Shopify merchant network. That expansion is now paused. “We are growing. We are thriving. We are being featured across major marketplaces. But growth cannot come at the expense of dignity.” Absolutely Amazing Alkaline H₂O™ has spent the last decade building its brand independently, selling millions of bottles and expanding its reach through national online marketplaces. The company says customers can continue supporting the brand through its other featured marketplaces, including Amazon, Walmart Marketplace, TikTok Shop and Shopify. “This isn’t about stopping our momentum,” Gilbert said. “It’s about being intentional about where that momentum takes us.” OUR SUCCESS WILL NEVER COST US OUR DIGNITY. 💧 Shop Absolutely Amazing Alkaline H₂O™ across our other featured marketplaces: 10 YEARS OF PURPOSE. 3,000,000+ BOTTLES SOLD. AND STILL GROWING. |
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Easy decision to support a brand that puts community and respect first. Ordering today.
Didn’t know they’d been around 10 years. That’s real staying power!
Do we know if Target plans to make any changes? Feels like the story just fades out.
I appreciate Mr. Gilbert putting dignity before dollars. Wish more business owners did that.
My wife swears by their water. Happy to keep getting it from Walmart.
But are these online marketplaces any better? They all have issues too.
Good on you for recognizing when to walk away from something that doesn’t feel right.
Anyone know if their water is available at Houston farmers markets? Would love to grab some locally.
Love to see local entrepreneurs with principles. Not everything is about profits.
Never tried alkaline water, does it taste different? Recommendations?
I hope people remember to support Black-owned companies all year, not just during controversy.
Strong move. Money can’t buy respect. I’ll continue to support where I can.
Did Target ever really apologize? Feels like these things just get swept under the rug.
I’d still like to see businesses take bigger risks with these retailers. Sometimes we need more representation inside, too.
It’s cool to see a Houston brand in national stores. Looking for you in Walmart next time!
As a small business owner, I get it. Sometimes the big contracts just aren’t worth it.
Your character shines brightest in tough moments. Respect to Gilbert for not chasing just any opportunity.
I hope this isn’t a permanent thing. Would’ve loved to buy in Target. I’m there every week.
Alkaline water is new to me but I’m down to support black-owned brands. Ordering from Amazon.
Viola Davis taking a stand definitely sends a message. Props to Gilbert for listening and following his gut.
Not sure boycotting Target will change much, but I get why he wants to protect his brand.
3 million bottles, wow! Didn’t know you could find them on TikTok Shop. Might give it a try.
Glad he’s doing what feels right, but I hope Target makes real changes so Black entrepreneurs feel welcome.
Never heard of Absolutely Amazing before, but I love seeing a business stick to its values. Will check it out.
Proud of LaMont for taking a stand. Dignity matters more than any deal. I’ll keep buying from the site!