Replying to Clean Cloth Campaigns allegations of cancelling orders and imposing conditions unable to fulfill, brands H&M and Bestseller have reiterated that they are supporting their vendors. Speaking to Apparel Resources, the brands revealed they have decided not to cancel delayed orders but instead, allow an extra month delay, or if the products are not seasonal, even more time. If as a last resort, the supplier cannot deliver orders, the brand will have an open dialogue with each affected supplier to see if it can come up with a solution.
H&M has also joined a global call-to-action to support garment workers and suppliers during the COVID-19 pandemic. It will work together with the ILO, IOE (International Organization of Employers), ITUC (International Trade Union Confederation), IndustriALL Global Union and other brands to tackle the immediate effects of COVID-19 and continue work towards a resilient garment industry for long-term. The retailer also added that it wants to help suppliers and garment workers, and ensure the future viability of the industry once the crisis has passed.
On the other hand, Bestseller says they are committed to accept all orders from Spring/Summer that have been produced or are in the process of being produced. The brand is still placing orders for autumn, though a reduction in some volumes is sought to prevent over-production.
