Editor’s Note
This article highlights Kering’s commitment to responsible sourcing and traceability of raw materials, a cornerstone of its sustainability strategy. As a leader in luxury, the Group recognizes that its environmental impact begins with its supply chain, and it is actively working to ensure that craftsmanship and exceptional materials go hand-in-hand with sustainable development.
Because they occupy a central place in the supply chain and in the Group’s environmental footprint, raw materials and their associated production processes are the subject of continuous reflection at Kering. Our objective: to ensure responsible and fully traceable sourcing of raw materials.
The products created by the Group’s Houses are the result of exceptional craftsmanship and artisanal technique. Designed and created from unique materials and substances, they undergo extremely rigorous quality controls to guarantee their longevity and durability. Aware of its interdependence with natural resources and the environmental impact of its activities, Kering has defined Sourcing Standards for its suppliers. Regularly updated, these standards form a foundation to ensure supplier practices comply with the social and environmental criteria defined by the Group and its Houses. Goal by 2025: to deploy, through innovation, sustainable sourcing and manufacturing, 100% aligned with Kering’s Standards.
Material traceability is one of the main challenges in the fashion sector, characterized by the complexity of its supply chains. Kering has set itself the goal of achieving full traceability of its key raw materials by 2025. The Group has already initiated several technologies to serve this objective.
Organic cotton represents another lever to reduce the Group’s footprint: its use could reduce Kering’s environmental impact by 80% compared to traditional cotton. Kering has partnered with Albini Group, Supima and Oritain to develop 100% traceable organic cotton. The principle: analyze the natural chemical properties of the actual fiber – using science and statistical analysis – to create a unique chemical fingerprint that links the cotton to the field where it was grown.
Blockchain is also among the promising solutions. Some Houses have thus begun to integrate it into their quest for traceability.
Alongside Fashion for Good, with which it has been a partner since 2017, the Group also supports a pilot project using this technology to improve the traceability of viscose fiber.
Through partnerships with startups and laboratories, Kering is developing new sourcing solutions and innovative raw materials, integrating, for example, biotechnologies. The Group is also exploring solutions aligned with the principles of the circular economy, such as using recycled fibers to create new fabrics.
In 2013, Kering created the Material Innovation Lab (MIL), dedicated to sustainable fabrics and textiles. More than 3,800 samples are now available to all the Group’s Houses – and the structure continues to grow. A similar platform has also been launched for the Jewelry activities: the Sustainable Innovation Lab (SIL).
Transitioning to a truly circular economy involves deeply rethinking how we produce and use resources, but also how we extend the lifespan of products.
Kering designs and promotes innovative solutions and processes conducive to the widespread adoption of more sustainable practices.
Optimizing and improving production processes is a major lever for achieving Kering’s social and environmental objectives.
To ensure its long-term prosperity, Kering constantly works on disruptive innovations capable of transforming traditional Luxury models.
Recycling, upcycling and regeneration are essential levers for profoundly transforming the luxury and fashion sectors.
