J.Crew Group Inc. Puts Factory Employees First With New Fair Trade Certified Denim
J.Crew and Madewell provide economic opportunities and increase sustainability with new collection
OAKLAND, Calif., January 29, 2019 /3BL Media/– Today, Fair Trade USA announces the beginning of a long-term partnership with the J.Crew Group and the introduction of J.Crew and Madewell’s first-ever Fair Trade Certified™ collection. Available at both retailers’ stores and websites respectively, the collection includes over 30 men’s and women’s denim styles ranging from $60 to $128.
The Fair Trade partnership represents the J.Crew Group’s deepening commitment to sustainability through establishing a supply chain that prioritizes both people and the planet. "We're excited to partner with Fair Trade USA as we expand our sustainability practices,” says President of Madewell Libby Wadle. “Through our work with Fair Trade USA, we're empowering workers and ensuring fair conditions and equal economic opportunities for everyone who touches J.Crew and Madewell products." With a robust plan in place to grow their Fair Trade program, the J.Crew Group is poised to be one of the biggest apparel participants.
With a strong focus on empowering factory, farm, and store employees, J.Crew Group’s partnership with Fair Trade USA will create an environment where people are encouraged to develop and sustain a lasting impact at work, at home and within their communities.
“It is so refreshing to see companies like J.Crew and Madewell step up to offer a better denim product that is not only beautiful and on trend, but also eco-friendly and socially responsible” said Maya Spaull, Vice President of Apparel & Home Goods at Fair Trade USA. “Denim is a staple wardrobe item around the world, and is an iconic part of American fashion culture. We all wear it, yet often do not stop to think about where it comes from and who made it.”
Since the launch of Fair Trade Certified coffee 20 years ago, Fair Trade USA is now the leading market-based model of sustainable production, trade and consumption in the United States. The nonprofit organization partners with over 1,300 brands to certify more than 30 different product categories. The first apparel and home goods factories were certified in 2013, and with 48 certified factories (+ an additional 39 in the pipeline) it is one of the fastest growing categories -- directly benefiting over 77,000 factory production employees in 13 countries. The program has generated well over $7.5 million in additional income for factory staff and their families.
"The products we buy and the clothes that we wear connect us to each other around the globe," said Paul Rice, Founder & CEO of Fair Trade USA. "Fair Trade connects our purchases to impact. This monumental initiative from J.Crew and Madewell uplifts thousands of employees involved in apparel production, and also empowers shoppers in the United States to select and wear styles that were created in line with their values. It sets a positive example for the entire industry."
The Fair Trade collection features 18 J.Crew styles and 16 Madewell styles -- available on J.Crew.com and Madewell.com respectively -- ranging from $60 to $128. Images of the production process and collection are available here.
About J.Crew Group:
J.Crew Group, Inc. is an internationally recognized omni-channel retailer of women's, men's and children's apparel, shoes and accessories. As of January 17, 2019, the Company operates 204 J.Crew retail stores, 127 Madewell stores, jcrew.com, jcrewfactory.com, madewell.com, and 174 factory stores (including 42 J.Crew Mercantile stores).
About Fair Trade USA:
Fair Trade USA is a nonprofit organization and the leading certifier of Fair Trade products in North America. Its trusted Fair Trade Certified™ seal on a product signifies that it was made according to rigorous Fair Trade standards that promote sustainable livelihoods and safe working conditions, protection of the environment, and strong, transparent supply chains. Rather than creating dependency on aid, the Fair Trade model empowers farmers, workers, and fishermen to fight poverty and earn additional money to improve their communities. Recognized as a leading social venture by the Clinton Global Initiative, the Skoll Foundation, and Ashoka, Fair Trade USA also helps brands and retailers tell their stories of impact and educates consumers about the power of their purchase. Visit FairTradeCertified.org for more information.
Contact:
Katie Schneider | Fair Trade USA
