Sainsbury’s and Mountain Warehouse have become the latest retailers to back the ‘Say Pants to the Tax’ campaign calling on the government to remove VAT on period underwear.
The retailers have joined the campaign led by M&S and period pants online retailer Wuka, with both pledging to pass on the cost saving to customers if VAT is removed.
Last week M&S kicked off its call to ministers to scrap VAT on period underwear after the tax was removed on feminine hygiene products two years ago.
Subscribe to Retail Gazette for free
Sign up here to get the latest news straight into your inbox each morning
Period underwear are similar to regular underwear but use a thicker absorbent material to help prevent leaks, making them a good alternative to sanitary pads. They can be washed and reused many times.
However, the underwear did not benefit from the removal of ‘tampon tax’ in 2021 because it is classified as clothing.
M&S corporate affairs director Victoria McKenzie-Gould said: “More than 26,000 people have now signed the petition and it’s fantastic to see two other major retailers – Sainsbury’s and Mountain Warehouse – join our campaign with WUKA, as well as fantastic charities; momentum is building!
“As we get nearer to the 100,000 mark on the petition our campaign will continue so that we say pants to this tax and level the playing field so whatever period product someone chooses to use, it is VAT free.
“From tomorrow we are going to cover the cost of VAT on period pants to make things fairer, sooner for our customers, and encourage the Government to do the right thing ahead of the deadline for their response.”
Sainsbury’s clothing, home & furniture director Christine Kasoulis added that period product price can be a barrier for many consumers.
“Period pants are an innovative and sustainable solution, and we stand with M&S and WUKA against the unfair price premium currently in place. We are committed to being a truly inclusive retailer and are always looking to do the right thing for our customers and colleagues.”
Click here to sign up to Retail Gazette‘s free daily email newsletter
