In the wake of the mounting sexual abuse lawsuits against entrepreneur Sean Combs, commonly known as Diddy, and his decision to step aside from his chairman role at Revolt, several prominent brands have distanced themselves from his e-commerce platform, Empower Global. A total of 18 companies have confirmed that they have severed ties with the online marketplace for Black-owned businesses. These companies made the decision following allegations of sexual assault and physical violence made by R&B singer Casandra "Cassie" Ventura and three other women.

The companies expressed their serious concerns about the allegations against Combs and found such behavior abhorrent and intolerable. Annette Njau, founder of luxury-bag, eyewear, and apparel company House of Takura, stated that they believe in victims' rights and support victims in speaking their truth, even against powerful individuals.

Likewise, Annette Azan, founder of undergarment and shapewear line Nuudii System, and Lenard Grier, co-founder of No One Clothiers, terminated their Empower Global accounts immediately upon learning about the allegations. Grier emphasized that the allegations are in direct conflict with the values his brand stands for, which include treating every individual with respect, regardless of gender, ethnicity, or age.

Luxury skin-care brand Tsuri unequivocally sought to terminate its association with Empower Global, stating that as a women-owned and -led company, they do not and will not tolerate mistreatment of women. High-end jewelry purveyor Fulaba, which advocates for empowering women and girls, also decided to leave the platform as they believe the allegations against Combs go against their core values.

The departure of these brands from Empower Global has dealt a rapid blow to the online marketplace, considering the initial fanfare surrounding its launch in July. Combs, who invested over $20 million into the venture, had expressed his excitement and intention to diversify opportunities for Black-owned businesses. The platform aimed to empower and support each other while promoting inclusivity.

However, some brands have chosen to remain with Empower Global. Out of more than 160 brands contacted by Rolling Stone, nine stated that they have no immediate plans to leave. Others are taking a cautious approach, closely monitoring the situation before making a final decision.

Apart from the allegations, some exiting brands also cited the platform's lackluster performance as a reason for their departure. Companies such as Rebecca Allen, founder of a high-end footwear company, and BabyDonna, which specializes in sheer mineral sunscreen, reported minimal sales and reduced traction on the platform. These factors influenced their decision to terminate the partnership, along with the allegations against Combs.

In a similar model to Amazon, Empower Global required sellers to pay a monthly subscription fee and charged a percentage of sales as a marketplace fee. However, some brands expressed disappointment, claiming that the platform did not elevate sales or maintain effective communication.

The allegations have had a broader impact on Combs' empire. Diageo, the liquor giant that partnered with Combs on Ciroc vodka and DeLéon tequila, is seeking to block his request for a court injunction and prevent him from using incoming marketing funds for new advertising, stressing that it would be detrimental to the brand.

While the companies that partnered with Empower Global may not have the same magnitude as Diageo, they highlighted the importance of brand management and empowerment. In light of the allegations, some companies are seeking to sever ties and even pursue financial restitution from Combs.

As these developments unfold, the future of Empower Global hangs in the balance, with the departure of these prominent brands casting a shadow over the platform's potential success. The allegations against Combs continue to reverberate throughout his various ventures, leaving their long-term prospects uncertain.