Kering Group, a prominent player in the luxury fashion industry, has joined the ranks of distinguished brands like Armani, Burberry, Chloé, and Lacoste in taking a significant step towards animal welfare. The conglomerate, which oversees renowned labels such as Yves Saint Laurent, Gucci, and Alexander McQueen, has recently committed to eliminating rabbit-fur-based angora materials from its high-end fashion products.
This bold move comes on the heels of Kering's comprehensive decision to go completely fur-free in 2021, showcasing the company's dedication to ethical practices. The ban on angora fur is an extension of this commitment, and it emerged following constructive discussions with People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), an influential vegan charity and shareholder in Kering.
PETA's Revelations on Angora Rabbit Farming and China's Dominance in Production
Reports indicate that PETA's involvement stems from numerous undercover investigations revealing disturbing practices in angora rabbit farming. These investigations uncovered instances of violent plucking, wherein rabbits were tied up, held down, and their soft hair forcefully torn out, often resulting in damage to their delicate skin. Shockingly, an exposé involving 10 different angora farms in China exposed workers exploiting and mistreating rabbits by pinning them against boards and forcibly removing fistfuls of fur, leaving the animals in agonizing pain.
It is noteworthy that China is the predominant producer of approximately 90% of the world's angora wool, adding global significance to Kering's decision to phase out angora from its luxury fashion products.
Industry-wide Adoption of Angora-Free Commitment
PETA, a vocal advocate for animal rights, has lauded Kering's compassionate decision to ban angora. Yvonne Taylor, Vice President of Corporate Projects at PETA UK, emphasized the cruelty associated with angora production, stating, "Angora and rabbit felt are torture for these sensitive animals, whose fur is either torn out while they’re still fully conscious or shorn off after they’ve been electrocuted or their necks have been broken." PETA encourages other brands still involved in angora trade to follow Kering's lead in prioritizing animal welfare.
Kering stands alongside over 400 brands and retailers that have already banned angora, including influential names such as Armani, Burberry, Chloé, Calvin Klein, D&G, Valentino, and Lacoste. This collective movement within the fashion industry reflects a growing awareness and commitment to ethical and cruelty-free practices, signaling a positive shift towards more compassionate and sustainable choices in luxury fashion.