DO YOU SELL ECO-LABELLED CLOTHES?
Yes. In 2005 sixteen percent of our collections (approximately 7 million garments) were marked according to the EU flower eco-labelling system or the Oeko-Tex health labelling system.
IS KAPPAHL ENVIRONMENTALLY CERTIFIED?
Yes. In 1999 KappAhl became the first fashion chain in the world to be awarded an environmental certificate in accordance with ISO 14001. In December 2005 KappAhl was re-certified - confirming that our environmental work is constantly progressing.
DOES KAPPAHL USE ANY ALLERGENS OR ENVIRONMENTAL TOXINS IN GARMENT DYEING AND PRINTING PROCESSES?
No. We aim to limit the use of harmful chemicals as far as possible.
That is why we have banned many chemicals and restricted the use of others. KappAhl´s regulations relating to the use of chemicals are included in an agreement that all suppliers have pledged to observe.
DOES KAPPAHL ACCEPT CHILD LABOUR?
The answer to this is a categorical no! It is important to us that our clothes are made in an ethically responsible manner. That is why, since 1997, KappAhl has imposed a Code of Conduct detailing the specific criteria that our suppliers must meet.
HOW DOES KAPPAHL KNOW THAT THE CODE OF CONDUCT IS BEING OBSERVED?
We have specially trained inspectors in our offices abroad who regularly check up on our suppliers. We also engage external firms, such as ITS, PwC and SGS, who perform independent audits. KappAhl is a member of BSR (Business for Social Responsibility), an international initiative in which companies collaborate to improve working conditions.
DOES KAPPAHL OWN ANY FACTORIES?
No. All KappAhl clothes are bought from independent suppliers and manufacturers in Asia and Europe. KappAhl is one of their many customers.
WHAT DO YOU DO WITH UNSOLD CLOTHES?
In Sweden we donate unsold clothes to charities, such as Stadsmissionen and Erikshjälpen, a Swedish-based, independent Christian aid organisation. In our other sales countries and KappAhl offices abroad, we work with reputable local aid organisations.
DOES KAPPAHL HAVE A POLICY ON THE USE OF FEATHERS, LEATHER AND FUR?
Yes. KappAhl uses only feathers and leather from animals whose meat is commonly sold as food in Scandinavia. We do not sell real fur, only synthetic imitations
DO YOU SELL MILITARY-INSPIRED CLOTHING?
KappAhl´s policy makes it clear that we will not sell products that can be linked in any way with war or violence. For this reason we do not sell camouflage-print clothing, cartridge belts, etc.