The I'll Be Missing You hitmaker's Combs Wines and Spirits LLC firm filed a complaint earlier this week in which they accused the "multi-billion dollar, publicly-traded spirits company" of failing to adequately promote his Ciroc and DeLeon ranges because they classed them as "Black brands" that should only be marketed to "urban" consumers.
According to the complaint, Diddy helped Ciroc's sales grow by over 3,000 per cent when he signed with Diageo to become the face of the brand in 2007 and though they partnered again in 2013 to "buy, market and sell" DeLeon Tequila, "Diageo consistently fell short of its commitments" regarding promotion.
The complaint also alleged a company executive had directly cited the rapper's race as a factor in holding DeLeon back, telling him if "he were 'Martha Stewart,' his brands would be more widespread." "Our steadfast commitment to diversity within our company and the communities we serve is something we take very seriously. We categorically deny the allegations that have been made and will vigorously defend ourselves in the appropriate forum.