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PRIVACY
Retail & Consumer

Fast fashion giant Boohoo defends position as allegations of continued worker exploitation emerge

The firm "is committed to the highest standards of ethical compliance within its supply chain"

Boohoo's fast turnaround trends are aimed at young people

Fast fashion giant Boohoo has defended its position after a media investigation alleged that workers are still being exploited in Leicester's textile industry.

According to the Sky News report, anti-slavery charity Hope of Justice said the audit and enforcement approach to clamp down on workforce exploitation is not working "because factory bosses are getting really creative and innovative" in how they hide it.

However, the Manchester-headquartered company said it "is committed to the highest standards of ethical compliance within its supply chain".

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In a statement issued to the London Stock Exchange, it added: "Suppliers are wholly expected to adhere to these standards, and any concerns such as those raised by Sky News are immediately investigated.

"Since last year's Independent Review, the group has repeatedly stated its determination in rebuilding a garment industry in Leicester with a robust, fair and transparent supply chain.

"Suppliers are visited more frequently, sub-contracting has been removed, products can only be purchased from our approved supplier list; mandatory whistle-blower helplines have been installed at every supplier; and the use of technology is allowing the group to forensically monitor suppliers and their financial records."

The names were released earlier this year after Boohoo accepted all the recommendations of a probe led by senior lawyer Allison Levitt.