Company Contrast: Overstock.com

Each week 2ndVote takes a look at popular companies that either score well or score poorly. We then provide alternatives that either better align with the 2ndVote values, or that should be avoided to the best of your ability. This weekly series is called The Company Contrast, and the company we will be focusing on this week is Overstock.com (3.34).

Overstock.com is an online retailer of home goods and furniture. The company was founded in 1999, primarily liquidating returned and surplus goods from other stores. Today the company sells both closeout and new merchandise. Overstock.com has a good track record of neutrality on most issues with two exceptions. CEO Jonathan Johnson has advocated for school choice as a past Republican gubernatorial candidate. The online store is also full of firearms accessories and gun safes, indicating a general support for the second amendment. Head over to overstock.com next time you need to shop for home goods.

This is a stark contrast to other home good retailers, such as Bed Bath & Beyond (1.21). Founded in 1971, Bed Bath & Beyond has grown to be one of the biggest distributors of domestic merchandise in the United States. They have received the lowest score possible on all issues save basic freedoms due to a one million dollar contribution to the NAACP, which advocates against most conservative values. Due to Bed Bath & Beyond having competitive alternatives, this company is a good candidate for consumers to choose to shop elsewhere.

EDITORS NOTE: This 2ndVote column is republished with permission. ©All rights reserved.

---