A third of UK fashion retailers do not publish ethical sourcing data, despite an increasing focus on sustainability,

The research, undertaken by supply chain group Inverto, part of Boston Consulting Group, found that 33% (five out of 15) of UK fashion retailers do not publish any ethical sourcing data in their annual report, their sustainability report, or elsewhere on their website.

The research also found that 80% of fashion retailers have laid out targets for responsible sourcing but only 47% provide a comparison of their ethical sourcing data to previous years.

13.3% of retailers do not demonstrate either targets for the future or a clear policy on ethical sourcing, the research also found.

Katharina Erfort, Principal at Inverto, said: “The sector has really embraced sustainability. However, some fashion retailers still have a way to go towards turning their commitment into concrete, actionable plans.”

Further findings in the research include that only 67% of retailers currently undertake audits of their suppliers to ensure materials are sourced responsibly.

Just 53% of retailers subject themselves to third-party audit frameworks such as the Ethical Trading Initiative (ETi) and the Supplier Ethical Data Exchange (SEDEX) while 60% of retailers break down their ethical sourcing data by business unit or product type, the research shows.

Erfort added: “Whilse retailers are keen to show to consumers they take ethical sourcing seriously, companies need to clearly demonstrate the progress they’re making year-on-year to truly inspire confidence.”

“Clothing supply chains are very complex and straddle multiple geographies. Being a successful clothing retailer requires accurate data, clear policies, and continued efforts to align with their sustainability goals.

“It is also vital to have close collaboration with suppliers in order to meet these goals. Some firms offer in-house clothing lines, and others stock third party brands who also might outsource their manufacturing, which adds to the complexity of ensuring products are sourced ethically.”

Research published in April found that nearly six in ten (58%) consumers believe clothing manufacturers are mainly responsible for the textile industry’s environmental and social impacts.