John Lewis stands firm as SodaStream boycott pressure mounts

John Lewis has resisted mounting pressure from pro-Palestine groups to cease selling Israeli SodaStream products despite allegations regarding treatment of Palestinian workers. The International Centre of Justice for Palestinians, ICJP, had urged several British retailers, including John Lewis, to remove SodaStream goods from their shelves, citing concerns over alleged segregation, discrimination and exploitative labour practices in the company’s facilities, accusations that SodaStream denies.

The department store’s leadership rejected calls for a boycott, stating in correspondence with the ICJP that it respectfully disagreed that the sale of SodaStream products contravened UK, European, or international law. John Lewis requires all brands to adhere to its responsible sourcing code of practice, focusing on working conditions. Representatives noted that SodaStream is widely stocked by multiple UK retailers but reported that John Lewis had been the only company to respond directly to the ICJP’s enquiries. The spokesperson for John Lewis affirmed that sourcing policies are kept continuously under review and adjustments will be made as warranted should circumstances change.

The campaign against SodaStream forms part of a broader movement by pro-Palestine groups targeting Israeli businesses in the wake of ongoing conflict in Gaza. The ICJP’s advisory board includes high profile figures such as Sir Alan Duncan, former foreign office minister, and Layla Moran, Liberal Democrat MP. Other retailers, namely Currys, Argos, and Ryman, were also contacted by the ICJP but either declined comment or did not respond.

Recent months have seen the Palestine Solidarity Campaign hold demonstrations outside major supermarkets including Sainsbury’s and Tesco, demanding the removal of Israeli products. The Co-op recently voted to discontinue Israeli produce, a decision criticised by Jewish organisations who called the information underpinning the move inaccurate and potentially discriminatory. According to official trade data, Israeli food imports to UK supermarkets have dropped significantly this year, with sharp declines in products such as tomatoes, avocados, carrots and couscous.

The debate reflects broader tensions for British retailers required to balance ethical considerations, legal compliance and consumer sentiment over international supply chains. John Lewis has reiterated its commitment to responsible sourcing and signalled readiness to review practices in line with evolving circumstances and stakeholder concerns.