Some fear of public backlash no doubt derives from the well-publicized boycott of the Walt Disney Co. by the Southern Baptist Convention. In 1996, the Southern Baptist Convention, with 15.7 million members, voted to boycott Disney because of its gay-friendly policies. Disney posted record earnings that year. Heterosexual consumers very rarely make purchasing decisions based on a company's gay employment policies, and if they do, such reaction will probably be short-lived. Also, there is probably just as much potential for gaining consumers who agree with a decision to implement DP benefits.
Companies can manage public backlash by anticipating an attack and being prepared with responses.
Domestic partner benefits are equal pay for equal work, a tool for attracting and keeping the best employees and a means of improving employee productivity.