Reasons and developments after the establishment of WRAP certification

Reasons and developments after the establishment of WRAP certification

Reasons for establishment and development Responding to public criticism of the apparel industry and the desire of the apparel industry to fulfill its social responsibilities More than 85% of US apparel is produced overseas - focus shifts to suppliers providing legal, ethical and humane production environments Awareness of multiple laws, cultures and working conditions supported by the American Apparel Association Seeking needs from brands, suppliers, NGOs, associations and governments Reviewing corporate, industry, multilateral government guidelines and national laws ILO and UN human rights regulations Apparel producers face increasing pressure from retailers, governments, consumers, shareholders, media and others regarding global production practices. From toys to sporting goods, industrial labor standards and factory production conditions have become the core of standard setting and proactive review and monitoring.

More than three years ago, the sewing industry began a process to demonstrate its commitment to responsible business practices and ensure that clothing is produced under legal, humane and ethical conditions. This process extends beyond clothing production to include retailers, human rights groups, public interest organizations, development agencies and empowerment groups.

The first result of this process was the development of the Principles for Responsible Apparel Manufacturing - basic standards for labor practices, factory conditions, the environment and customer requirements. They were endorsed by the full AAMA Board of Directors in 1998. Recently, WRAP was adopted by representatives of apparel industry groups from 18 countries around the world (see endorsement). Support for the Principles grows every month from consumers, manufacturers, and governments around the world. Recently, WRAP was adopted by producers in Hong Kong, Sri Lanka, and Guatemala. In November 2001, WRAP welcomed the support of Turkish textile and apparel producers.

In order to join the WRAP principles, many production association members and production companies actively participate in the WRAP certification program. The WRAP certification program is the only independent, globally supported factory certification program that requires producers to adhere to the 12 WRAP production principles to ensure that workplace conditions are safe and healthy and that workers' rights are guaranteed.

As of November 2003, WRAP has more than 700 international manufacturers, 1,300 factories have participated in the program, and 570 factories have been certified. The certification is valid for 12 months, and all participating factories must accept unannounced spot checks required by the certification program. Many manufacturers believe that WRAP certification not only helps to make social commitments more reliable, but also helps to promote production capacity, reduce personnel turnover, promote communication between management and employees, make working conditions safer and improve employee enthusiasm. Today, WRAP certification has been recognized by many retailers and manufacturers as the most reliable and cost-effective factory coordination system that can ensure legal, ethical, and humane production.

The WRAP Global Good Factory Accreditation Mark will continue to develop and be accepted by more and more sewn product manufacturers, retailers and governments around the world.