Boohoo faces backlash for re-engaging a supplier previously terminated over a modern slavery scandal.
- The fashion retailer resumed purchasing from GN Euro, now operating in Morocco under the name Euro Touch.
- Boohoo initially severed ties following 2020 revelations of underpaid workers in UK factories.
- The company claims adherence to strict transparency and ethical standards in onboarding suppliers.
- Campaigners continue to raise concerns about Boohoo’s supply chain practices despite changes.
Boohoo, a renowned fast fashion retailer, has come under scrutiny for restoring its business relationship with GN Euro. The supplier, now operating under the name Euro Touch in Morocco, was previously disengaged in 2021 following a modern slavery scandal. Despite the change in location, Boohoo’s decision to re-engage has sparked criticism due to past ethics allegations associated with the supplier.
The controversy dates back to 2020 when an undercover investigation by The Sunday Times revealed that factory workers in the UK were being paid below the minimum wage. This led to a significant backlash and an independent review by barrister Alison Levitt KC, which corroborated the claims, prompting Boohoo to sever ties with GN Euro at the time.
In response to the scandal, Boohoo has since publicised a global supplier list as part of an ethical reform effort. The company asserts that it ceases cooperation with manufacturers who fail to meet its stringent transparency requirements. According to Boohoo, only suppliers who pass through their rigorous onboarding and due diligence processes are engaged, and these suppliers must comply with their code of conduct.
Despite Boohoo’s efforts to portray a commitment to ethical practices, campaigners have expressed doubts regarding the improvements in the supply chain. Concerns linger that issues such as poor working conditions and low pay persist, despite Boohoo’s claim of regular audits and a thorough compliance process for its suppliers.
A Boohoo spokesperson stated, “Boohoo is open and transparent about its entire supply base, with all our suppliers listed and regularly updated on the company’s website. We do not work with suppliers which cannot adhere to our highest standards.” They highlighted that every supplier undergoes a third-party social compliance audit, is required to sign a code of conduct, and is subject to regular audits by Boohoo’s ethical teams.
Boohoo’s re-engagement with its former supplier remains contentious, reflecting ongoing ethical challenges in its supply chain practices.
