The only other thing I can think of is an issue of petty personal concern. The daughter of an HD VP drives a delivery truck for the store in West Cupcake and when she tried to deliver to the army base, she got frisked/fondled and the truck was searched etc.And, after no local satisfaction, HD feels that the only way to get a response is to make a big deal out of it.
BTW, I have been going to Home Depot lately. The estalished Lowes, visible right down the block, is always crowded so if you go to the new HD, there is seldom anyone there and the employees can actually be found and asked questions.
That's the exact opposite of my experience. I go to Lowes in another part of the (DFW) metroplex, passing up a Home Depot (except for quick in and out trips) about a half mile away.
Because government contractors are required to maintain affirmative action plans which is a nice way of saying "quotas." Freepers should applaud them for putting their money where their mouth is and taking a stand against government intrusion into the running of their business.