FatFace, a popular clothing brand, has recently entered into a groundbreaking agreement with some of its key supplier partners to tackle greenhouse gas emissions. The agreement involves the establishment of a methodology for measuring emissions, the development and implementation of a Net Zero transition plan, and regular updates on progress towards these goals.
In exchange for their participation, FatFace will grant these suppliers preferred partner status for specific product categories. Additionally, they will have access to co-funding opportunities for decarbonisation projects, pilot programs, and tooling upgrades that directly contribute to reducing emissions. The brand will also share best practices in measuring and reducing emissions, as well as energy-saving ideas with their partners.
Two of FatFace’s largest supplier partners, Afflatus and Kautilya Industries, have already signed up for this initiative. Afflatus, based in Gurugram, India, specializes in designing and delivering apparel, home products, and accessories for global brands. Kautilya Industries, also based in India, is a garment manufacturer and exporter with over 1,500 employees across four units. Together, these two companies produce around 11% of FatFace’s products.
Gokul Mahna, from Afflatus, expressed his excitement about the partnership, stating that environmental sustainability is a core part of their business model. He emphasized their commitment to efficiency, accountability, and continuous improvement in environmental management. This agreement with FatFace will allow them to work even closer together to ensure high-quality products are produced while prioritizing environmental and social responsibility.
This initiative is part of FatFace’s broader Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) strategy, with plans to expand the supplier partnership later this year. Nick Stevenson, the trading and sustainability director at FatFace, highlighted the brand’s progress in becoming B Corp-certified and emphasized the importance of addressing emissions throughout their supply chain.
Since being acquired by NEXT in October 2023, FatFace has aligned its supplier code of conduct with NEXT’s Code of Practice based on the Ethical Trading Initiative Base Code. In September 2024, the brand’s B Corp score improved from 80.4 to 89.1 following recertification.
Overall, FatFace’s partnership with its suppliers to reduce greenhouse gas emissions is a significant step towards achieving their sustainability goals. By working together with key partners, the brand is demonstrating its commitment to environmental stewardship and fostering a more sustainable future for the fashion industry.
