To fur or not to fur?

Yoox Net-a-Porter has announced all affiliated sites under the parent company’s umbrella will no longer sell animal fur on their online platforms, which include Net-a-Porter, the Outnet, Yoox and Mr Porter in adherence to the International Fur Free Retailer Program.

A company spokesman said: “At a group level, we have been phasing out completely selling fur products on our multibrand online stores since last year. We stopped buying fur items and ensured all processes were in place, from procurement to careful quality control.“
YNAP fur-free policy, which was outlined in the company’s Sustainability Report 2016, is part of the Group’s ongoing commitment to managing environmental impact responsibly and is the result of its long-standing relationship with The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS), Humane Society International (HSI) and Lega Anti Vivisezione (LAV). “Our fur free commitment announced today was inspired by a thorough and rigorous educational process with the HSUS and LAV regarding the protection of animal rights,” stated the representative.

YNAP Group’s decision to implement a fur-free policy comes as the demand for fur in the fashion and interior industries continues to grow. Over 75 million mink pelts and 15.25 million fox pelts were produced on farms globally in 2016, according to the International Fur Federation (IFF). The global fur trade is currently valued at over 30 billion USD, which includes all stages of the industry from farming, to processing and retail.

“Yoox Net-a-Porter’s commitment is a significant milestone that should stand as a leading example to the fashion world,” commented Simone Pavesi, manager of animal-free fashion for LAV. “It is a tangible signal that the clothing industry can be more sustainable and ethical, without necessarily resorting to the use of animal products.”

This issue has long divided the industry. While many within the fashion community will support YNAP’s position, there is a strong contingent that continues to endorse the use of animal pelts. The global fur trade is worth $30 billion, according to a press release last week from the International Fur Federation.