Burberry criticized for destroying "waste" stocks



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A decision by the British fashion firm Burberry to destroy 28.6 million pounds to guard against counterfeiting has sparked criticism from groups who say the practice is harmful to the environment [19659002]. annual report, which also reflects its commitment to become carbon neutral, and to "reduce, reuse and recycle" any waste created in its business. Cremated goods included approximately £ 10 million of cosmetics and beauty products.

The company claims that the move is to protect its intellectual property and to ensure that the surplus stock does not end up being diverted for sale on the market. black or gray markets, devaluing its brand, while industry observers also say that it is also about recovering duties on exported goods. This can take place on destroyed property, but not on those that result in discount sales.

Although Burberry is currently the star of the practice, it seems that this is a widespread phenomenon in the fashion industry. are not required to reveal if they do. A documented case involves Cartier, Piaget and Montblanc's parent Richemont, who would have bought and destroyed $ 200 million of unsold luxury watches earlier this year, reducing his profits. Another case concerned the Swedish retailer H & M, accused last year of burning 60 tonnes of unsold garments since 2013, but denies these claims.

Burberry said in a statement that he "has put in place some meticulous processes to minimize excess inventory." In cases where disposal of the products is necessary, we do so at a minimum. responsible manner and we continue to look for ways to reduce and reevaluate our waste. "

He also stated that the destruction of cosmetics was one of the licensing of his Burberry Beauty lines to the American company Coty, the decision It has not been well received by some shareholders. An investor asked at its annual meeting last week why shareholders could not buy the unsold ones. Meanwhile, customers have taken to Twitter to record their disapproval:

Main image courtesy of StockSnap / Pixabay

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