Kering Group, a prominent luxury conglomerate, has recently announced its decision to phase out the use of fur in all of its fashion houses’ collections starting from the fall of 2022. This move comes after Gucci, a brand within the group, went fur-free in 2017, inspiring other brands like Balenciaga, Bottega Veneta, Alexander McQueen, Brioni, and Saint Laurent to follow suit.
Kering has long been committed to sustainability and animal welfare, making it a core part of its business practices. With a focus on high environmental and social standards, the group has continuously aimed to lead the way in sustainable practices within its supply chain and the wider industry.
François-Henri Pinault, Chairman and CEO of Kering, emphasized the company’s dedication to animal welfare, stating, “For many years, Kering has been working towards setting new standards for sustainability. Our decision to end the use of fur in all of our collections is a natural progression of our ongoing efforts. The world has changed, our customers have evolved, and luxury must adapt to these shifting values.”
In today’s society, consumers are increasingly conscious of environmental and societal values, which has led to a greater demand for ethical fashion. By going fur-free, Kering is aligning itself with this global trend and catering to the preferences of luxury consumers who are seeking more ethical choices.
It is important to note that while Kering is eliminating animal fur, the group will continue to use other animal-derived materials and fibers that meet its stringent animal welfare standards established in 2019. These standards ensure that the production of these materials is carried out with utmost care and respect for animal well-being.
This announcement comes at a time when the luxury industry is under pressure to address its impact on the environment and society. As consumers become more aware of the consequences of their purchasing decisions, there is a growing demand for luxury brands to operate in a sustainable and ethical manner. Kering’s decision to abandon fur further solidifies its position as a leader in the industry’s sustainability efforts.
Despite the challenges faced by the luxury industry, Kering Group continues to demonstrate its commitment to both profitability and responsible business practices. With an impressive 8.4% growth in revenue during the first half of 2021 compared to the same period in 2019, Kering sets an example for other luxury brands to follow by embracing sustainable alternatives to fur. This move signals a positive shift towards a more compassionate and environmentally conscious industry.
For more information on Kering Group’s sustainability efforts, visit their official website here.
To learn more about the global trend towards ethical fashion, explore this article here.
