The launch of the Sustainable Apparel Coalition’s (SAC) revised Brand Retail Module (BRM) has been welcomed by the Sustainable Terms of Trade Initiative (STTI), a global manufacturer-driven initiative aimed at establishing more equitable purchasing practices in the textile industry. The BRM is an instrument used by more than 500 brands and retailers globally, which now also includes several questions specifically aimed at purchasing practices.
According to STTI, the BRM is a positive ‘first step’ but further development of the questions regarding purchasing practice questions will be required. STTI particularly, wants to see a greater percentage of the questions of BRM to be focused on purchasing methods. This will better reflect their significance as a necessary condition for significant improvements in social and environmental conditions in the garment supply chain.
The revision comes as a result of inputs and feedback provided as a result of the engagement between the SAC and STTI and Fair Wear, representing the Multi-Stakeholder Initiatives Working Group of the Common Framework of Responsible Purchasing Practice (CFRPP).
“STTI is glad that the SAC has been receptive to its recommendations and we can now see the garment manufacturers’ definition of good purchasing practices clearly reflected in the BRM. The resulting revised purchasing practices set of questions within the Higg Brand & Retail assessment is definitely a step in the right direction in the quest for the necessary improvement of purchasing practices,” said Miran Ali, STTI spokesperson.
“We are excited to launch the latest version of our Higg Brand and Retail Module, which is a major milestone for the SAC and are grateful for the opportunity to engage with STTI and the Common Framework and their contribution and feedback on the responsible purchasing practices section of the Higg Brand and Retail Module. As we continue to iterate the BRM to address the needs and expectations of our members and industry at large, we look forward to future opportunities to deepen our collaboration as we continue to support brands and retailers on their sustainability journeys to drive positive impact at scale,” said Maravillas Rodriguez Zarco, director, Higg Brand & Retail, Sustainable Apparel Coalition.
