Hermès, Selfridges, and Stella McCartney have quietly withdrawn from the Fashion Pact, an initiative launched in 2019 to address the environmental impact of the fashion industry. The organization, now co-chaired by H&M CEO Helena Helmersson, claims to represent a third of the global fashion market.
Reports suggest that the departure of these brands is due to the lack of progress made by the Fashion Pact since its establishment four years ago. Hermès, Selfridges, and Stella McCartney have long been committed to corporate social responsibility (CSR) strategies and felt that the Fashion Pact did not offer sufficient advancements in sustainability.
The Fashion Pact management acknowledges the exit of these brands but asserts that fluctuations in membership are normal. They believe that these departures ensure that the organization comprises companies that are strongly dedicated to the goals of the Fashion Pact and will contribute to collective progress.
Although there has been a slight decrease in the number of members, the Fashion Pact has approved the entry of two new brands and is currently reviewing five additional applications. Notable additions to the organization include OTB Group (owner of Diesel and Marni) and MF Brands (owner of Lacoste, Aigle, and Gant).
Helena Helmersson now assumes the role of co-chair, taking over from François-Henri Pinault, CEO of Kering and co-founder of the Fashion Pact. Pinault will remain on the executive committee, while Helmersson will work alongside Paul Polman, former CEO of Unilever.
The Fashion Pact aims to accelerate collective efforts across the fashion industry, from suppliers to retailers. The organization plans to place greater emphasis on activities earlier in the value chain. Members such as Burberry, Kiabi, Mango, Farfetch, Carrefour, Armani, Etam, and Adidas have set ambitious goals to achieve the use of 100% renewable energy by 2030 and carbon neutrality by 2050.
Since 2020, the Fashion Pact has implemented various initiatives, including a “virtual collective power purchase agreement” to increase the use of renewable energy in Europe. They are also developing a common biodiversity benchmark to measure companies’ impact on fauna and flora and promote more environmentally-friendly strategies.
Despite the departures of Hermès, Selfridges, and Stella McCartney, the Fashion Pact remains committed to its goals. Under the leadership of new co-chairs Helena Helmersson and Paul Polman, the organization seeks to foster collaboration and address the challenges posed by climate change. The fashion industry plays a pivotal role in sustainable development, and initiatives like the Fashion Pact are vital in ensuring a more sustainable future for the planet.
Useful links:
1. Fashion Pact official website
2. More about the departures from the Fashion Pact
