Challenging Retailers

Asking Questions

Ethical shopping would be a lot easier if retailers were required to provide information on where and by whom their clothes are made, or if there was a recognizable label indicating which clothes are produced under humane conditions. But don't wait until such a system is in place; you can make an impact today simply by asking the right questions when you shop.

When you shop, ask the store clerk, or better yet, ask the store manager the following questions:

• How does your company guarantee your clothes are produced under humane conditions?
• Can I get a list of the names and addresses of the contractors and subcontractors that produce your clothes?
• Do you have a code of conduct? Can I have a copy?
• How do you monitor whether your contractors adhere to your code of conduct? What do you do when you discover violations?

If they can't answer your questions, and chances are they can't, ask for the name and phone number of someone you can call for the information. Then phone them.

Learn more about how and why companies should be transparent on labour rights here