Sweatshop shame: Banana Republic accused of promoting unfair working conditions
Banana Republic, opened its first store in the UK yesterday in Regent Street, London, amidst allegations of promoting unfair working conditions. According to the charity War on Want, workers in its Indian factory are forced to work 70 hours a week for 15p an hour, often receiving only half payments for overtime.
Even worse, the Guardian claims that workers are verbally abused if they dare complain, and petty disputes often result in docked pay.
The fashion giant which is owned by Gap Inc, responded swiftly stating that it would investigate the claims and maintained that all its factories (even those that it doesn’t own) are regularly checked for compliance with the company’s ethical code. Whether the allegations will affect sales in its UK flagship store is questionable.
The Independent asked shoppers who made the effort to visit the Regent street branch their thoughts about the situation and received mixed views.
Coincidentally, Banana Republic has confirmed it will be launching an eco friendly line of clothing made from organic cotton and bamboo.
[Source]
Author: Michele Obi
Michele is the Founder & Editor-in-Chief of My Fashion Life. In between editing, freelancing and spending most of her time on the internet, she also finds time to shop (too much) and obsess over shoes. She loves sushi and counts Matthew Williamson, John Galliano, Valentino and Hussein Chalayan as her favourite designers. Her biggest regret - never seeing Prince in concert!
