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One of the world’s leading online fashion retailers has pledged to drop fur.
Yoox Net A Porter Group [YNAP], which includes Net A Porter, Mr Porter and The Outnet, has announced a new fur-free policy which will exclude all items and accessories made from animal fur.
A spokesperson for the group says the fur-free policy, outlined in the company’s 2016 Sustainability Report, ‘confirms the commitment of the group to managing environmental impact responsibly’.
The group has a long-standing relationship with The Humane Society of the United States [HSUS], Humane Society International [HSI] and Lega Anti Vivisezione [LAV].
It will continue to work closely with these organisations, as well as other leading animal and environmental protection organisations,in order to stay updated regarding ethical sourcing.
Claire Bass, executive director of HSI UK, said: “Yoox Net A Porter Group going fur-free sends a truly powerful message across the fashion world, and to luxury brands in particular, that fur is very firmly out of fashion.
“Designers and fashion retailers that continue to sell fur are peddling a product of immense animal suffering, so it is thrilling to see such influential brands embracing fur-free policies.”
Matteo James Moroni, Head of Sustainability at Yoox Net A Porter Group, added: “YNAP is on a very important journey towards managing environmental impact responsibly. This journey began with the launch of our first sustainability initiative, YOOXYGEN, in 2009.
“Our fur free commitment announced today was inspired by a thorough and rigorous educational process with the HSUS and LAV regarding the protection of animal rights.
“We aim to act as a catalyst for change in the industry, sharing knowledge, innovating and leading by example.”
YNAP is ‘demonstrating compassionate leadership’ in the luxury fashion industry according to PJ Smith, senior manager of fashion policy for The HSUS, who said: “This move should encourage designers and other retailers to opt for stylish and functional alternatives to fur and to shed the cruelty associated with commercial trapping and fur farming.”
The fur-free policy represents a welcome step forward for these welfare groups, but also conscious consumers globally, as YNAP joins other brands and retailers adhering to the international Fur Free Retailer Program, supported by the Fur Free Alliance (FFA), an international coalition of leading animal and environmental protection organisations worldwide.
“YOOX NET-A-PORTER GROUP’s commitment is a significant milestone that should stand as a leading example to the fashion world,’ said Simone Pavesi, manager of animal-free fashion for LAV.
“It is a tangible signal that the clothing industry can be more sustainable and ethical, without necessarily resorting to the use of animal products.”
