Boohoo has come under fire for re-engaging with a supplier previously dismissed over modern slavery concerns. Critics highlight ongoing transparency issues, prompting heated debate.
- The controversy revolves around Leicester-based GN Euro, now operating under Euro Touch in Morocco, once again supplying Boohoo.
- Despite Boohoo’s global supplier transparency initiative, campaigners argue that supply chain problems persist.
- An independent review in 2020 revealed labour violations, leading to wide-ranging cuts in Boohoo’s supplier list.
- Boohoo’s latest financial report shows a tripling of losses, intensifying scrutiny on its operational decisions.
Boohoo, a leading fast fashion brand, is currently embroiled in a controversy following its decision to re-engage with a supplier previously cut off due to involvement in a modern slavery scandal. The Telegraph reports that Boohoo is once again procuring garments from GN Euro, a company it had previously disengaged from in 2021. Now operating under the name Euro Touch, the supplier continues its operations from a new base in Tangier, Morocco.
In 2020, an exposé by The Sunday Times revealed that workers at a factory associated with Boohoo were paid below the minimum wage. An independent investigation by barrister Alison Levitt KC verified these claims, prompting Boohoo to significantly reduce its number of suppliers. Recent financial disclosures further indicate that Boohoo’s losses have tripled, raising additional concerns about its supply chain management.
Boohoo insists it has reformed its practices, publishing a global supplier list to enhance transparency. According to a company spokesperson, Boohoo’s suppliers must meet high standards, with robust checks in place to ensure compliance. These include a code of conduct and regular audits by ethical teams.
Despite these assurances, campaigners remain sceptical, pointing to persistent issues within Boohoo’s supply chain. They argue that while Boohoo claims non-compliance leads to supplier termination, the re-engagement with Euro Touch suggests otherwise. Boohoo, however, maintains that every supplier, including GN Euro under its new identity, follows stringent onboarding and due diligence processes.
Boohoo’s efforts to address past issues are overshadowed by persistent supply chain concerns, as critics question the brand’s commitment to ethical practices.
