Burberry bans exotic leathers
Burberry’s new CEO Jonathan Akeroyd has confirmed the ban of using exotic leathers in future collections during an earnings call on Wednesday.
The British luxury brand had previously banned the use of real fur and angora in September 2018, but its animal welfare policy suggested it still sources exotic skins like python, ostrich and alligator.
The move comes after vigorous campaigning from animal rights activists, with luxury brands including Chanel, Victoria Beckham, Jil Sander and Mulberry dropping exotic leathers in recent years.
Commenting on the news, PETA Vice President Mimi Bekhechi said: "During Burberry’s annual meeting last year, PETA UK asked when it would make good on its commitment to be ‘a force for good in the world’ by banning exotic skins, and we’re delighted that after years of pressure from PETA entities around the world, that day is today!
"A growing list of designers is realizing that there is nothing chic about an industry in which alligators are hacked open, pythons are inflated with air compressors, and lizards are decapitated for garments and accessories.
"The few irresponsible outliers still using exotics, such as Louis Vuitton, Hermès, and Gucci, are not just profiting from the exploitation and slaughter of animals but also playing Russian roulette with public health, given that experts – including the United Nations and the World Health Organisation – have warned that the next pandemic could well come from the fashion industry. The future of fashion is vegan, and those failing to embrace that will be hung out to dry, like yesterday’s laundry."
