// Products using exotic skins will be banned from Selfridges from February 2020
// Exotic skins refers to pythin, alligator, crocodile and lizard skin
// Selfridges will only sell leather from agricultural livestock once exotic skins are phased out
Selfridges has announced a pledge to phase out the sale of exotic skins by 2020 in the latest move to become a sustainable retailer.
The luxury department store said products that use python, alligator, crocodile and lizard skin would be banned and from February next year it will only sell leather from agricultural livestock.
READ MORE:
The retailer said the move marked continuation of a “longstanding commitment” to place ethics and sustainability at the heart of commercial decisions and customer experience.
“I am proud to confirm that exotic skins will no longer be available to purchase at Selfridges as of February 2020,” buying director Sebastian Manes said.
Humane Society International executive director Claire Bass welcomed the news.
“It is wonderful to see Selfridges end the sale of exotic skins, a move that will save countless crocodiles and snakes from losing their lives,” she said.
“When Selfridges went fur-free more than a decade ago, it positioned itself as a retailer at the forefront of compassionate fashion.
“Banning exotic skins in recognition of the serious animal welfare issues that exist in this industry is a natural next step for a responsible retailer.”
Selfridges was one of the first department stores to ban the sale of fur back in 2005 and in 2015, it removed all single-use plastic water bottles from sale. This was followed by all single-use carbonated drinks bottles in 2018.
In addition, since 2017 the signature yellow paper bags have been made using upcycled coffee cups from Selfridges stores and head office, and since the beginning of this year, all garment bags have been made with used plastic bottles.
The Buying Better, Inspiring Change strategy introduced in 2016 also saw Selfridges make a commitment to ensure that 50 per cent of all products are better for people and the planet by 2022.
“Buying Better Inspiring Change underpins our business and our culture. As a leading global retailer, Selfridges seeks to use its influence to encourage partners and people to buy responsibly, respect the planet and protect our future,” sustainability director Daniella Vega.
Click here to sign up to Retail Gazette‘s free daily email newsletter
