When a new trend makes its entrance into the fashion world, they’re sometimes met with rolling eyeballs but one trend that’s been met with applause is sustainability. Brands and retailers have been preaching about their continued plans but in some cases, they’re just not good enough. One Canadian retailer isn’t just sharing their plans but they’ve given us a hard deadline, too. In an effort to commit to a more sustainable future, luxury heritage department store Holt Renfrew has just announced that it will officially go fur-free by the end of 2021, specifically December 31.
Holt Renfrew
In addition to the exiting of all furs and animal skins, the retailer has also said that materials across the business like cotton, leather, down and feathers and plastic packaging will come from certified sustainable sources by the end of 2025.
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Plus, Holt’s also revealed that they will stop selling cosmetic products that contain plastic glitter and the retailer has made a commitment that all of its denim will come from certified sustainable sources by the end of 2025.
“Since joining Holt Renfrew last year, the team and I have been listening to our customers, our employees, and our communities across the country to better understand what they want from Holts,” says Sebastian Picardo, President & CEO, Holt Renfrew. “Our customers are at the centre of our business, and we want to ensure that sustainability and innovation are at the forefront of their experience at Holts.” Picardo said further, “Retail can be a force for good, and we know that our customers want to make trusted, responsible purchases. Our 360-degree commitment to sustainability removes the barriers for them, allowing them to shop with confidence, in a responsible way.”
Holt’s also worked closely with worked with the Humane Society International/Canada to outline the exit of the materials.
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“Holt Renfrew’s progressive suite of sustainability commitments, including ending the sale of animal fur and exotic animal skins, is a tremendous step forward for animal protection and also a sign of changing consumer habits,” Rebecca Aldworth, the executive director of the society, said in a statement. “Today’s consumers are increasingly informed and motivated to ensure that their purchases are cruelty-free and sustainable.”
This announcement is a serious shift for Holt Renfrew as the retailer originally started out business as a furrier back in Quebec City in 1837.
