#EThicalize Denim
CALLS TO ACTION FOR
Denim Mills / Jeans Factories
Join the temporary working group for suppliers.
As described above, this temporary working group would receive a time-bound directive
to discuss these main purchasing issues and provide recommendations on how to
address them:
1. Costing.
2. Payment terms.
3. Liabilities.
4. Binding agreement for international industry players.
5. Living wage implementation.
6. Counter-sourcing
2. Adopt/endorse our Eight Ethical Principles of Jean & Denim Purchasing.
We have published an ethical code of conduct for buyers, it is appended to this report. We ask that suppliers adopt it, share it, and have BRIs sign it as a reciprocal gesture when suppliers sign the code of conduct given to them by BRIs. We realize this might sound like a big ask, except if it is taken up by a critical mass of top denim fabric and jeans suppliers, and supported by stakeholders taking action on some of the other areas we have suggested here. Transparency and due diligence legislation, a binding agreement, and action by the governments in supplier companies to enforce contracts are especially crucial. If you are part of the denim and jeans supply chain and would like to be part of this working group, please join us here.
3. Demand a seat at the table.
With policymakers, NGOs, and brands for all discussions and agreements affecting the denim industry. Ensure your voice is heard and contribute your valuable expertise and experience to any legislative debates and industry events.
4. Hold yourself to the same standard.
We expect jeans and denim suppliers who adopt the The Ethical Principles of Jean and Denim Purchasing, and to treat other suppliers and their employees with the same high standard of respect and transparency that they ask for from BRIs.
“A lot of these measures are traditionally seen as a supplier thing — paying for severance or paying the regular wages. That’s certainly true, but if brands are not factoring in the cost of severance into their pricing, then it often financially can be very hard for suppliers to have the cash flow to pay for severance when factories are closed. That’s something that we really want brands to be contributing to.”
Our hope is that if the stakeholders come together to follow our recommendations and find success, the denim industry can inspire the rest of the apparel and accessories industry as we look toward a more just and equitable future.
#ethicalizedenim
For more information: download the full report or return to our report page.