Page 26 Supplier relationships


EJF cotton campaign
In relaunching its campaign to improve the regulation of the cotton industry, the Environmental Justice Foundation (EJF) expressed concerns about the 'unsustainable, inequitable and abusive conditions under which much of the world's cotton is produced'. The campaign groups' concerns focus on the use of pesticides, water consumption and the existence of forced and child labour, particularly in Uzbekistan but also in Egypt, Pakistan, Turkmenistan, Tajikistan and India.


Our Indian organic cotton is grown without the use of pesticides and chemical fertilisers, and coloured using only organic plant dyes. However, John Lewis plans to meet with the EJF to explore how we can work together to develop an even more robust and transparent cotton supply chain. Initial estimates suggest it is likely to entail a far greater effort than needed for our timber supply chain.


(Photograph of two champagne flutes with the caption:)

We support British manufacturers and suppliers wherever we can, from Scottish wool to Sheffield steel, and from Dartington crystal glassware to Wedgwood china.


Material issues
John Lewis owns a production unit in the north of England, Herbert Parkinson, which produces our own-brand duvets, pillows, furnishing fabrics and ready-made curtains, and provides our made-to-measure curtain service.

However, in September 2007, we announced with great regret the sale of Stead McAlpin, our textile and dyeing business in Carlisle, and JH Birtwistle, our Lancashire-based textile weaving subsidiary, to Apex Textiles. Despite significant capital investment and restructuring, both businesses have suffered declining sales and ongoing losses for the last 10 years. The decision to sell to a buyer with considerable experience in textile manufacturing was seen as providing the best chance of profitability and the best employment prospects for the Partners working in these businesses, while enabling the Partnership to withdraw from the manufacturing sector.

In addition Partners' working terms and conditions will be protected for two years and they will receive ex gratia payments to reflect the loss of their Bonus and discount.
"Job security has been a priority throughout the negotiations, and our focus has been on finding the option that best supports Partners' long-term employment interests."
Andy Street Managing Director, John Lewis


Further information
> www.sedex.org.uk
Supplier Ethical Data Exchange

> www.ejfoundation.org
Environmental Justice Foundation

> www.wwf.org.uk and www.oxfam.org
Organic cotton farming

> www.herbertparkinson.com
Herbert Parkinson