This article in WWD highlights an interesting trend: fashion consumers are starting to blur the lines between politics and corporate responsibility, and brands are following their lead. 

H&M, Adidas, Nike and Burberry are among the companies acutely aware of the dynamic, stuck between their desire to avoid forced labor and cotton produced in Xinjiang, China, and Beijing-backed boycotts and reprisals — setting up a direct conflict between promises to consumers and hopes of expanding in China.

But that is just the latest — and very on-point — example of a growing trend that has fashion testing out its political power and trying to find its place. Companies across the industry now see themselves on the front lines of climate change with their sustainability programs. They are also redoubling diversity efforts while supporting the Black Lives Matter movement, wading into issues surrounding voter rights, gun control, and more. 

“The role of the CEO today is probably a lot different than it was five, 10 years ago,” Chip Bergh, CEO of Levi Strauss & Co., told WWD when asked about the political playing field. “We’ve got employees and suppliers and customers and they are important stakeholders. It does make the job more difficult, you’ve got to weigh and balance all these critical issues.” 

As the fashion industry becomes more responsive to, and accountable for, their behavior, they will likely look to reshoring their manufacturing to the USA, even if it drives up prices. Because that is one of the best ways to show their commitment to sourcing products ethically and sustainably.

Read more HERE