Numerous well-known brands under suspicion in Italian sweatshop investigation

Authorities in Milan have flagged 13 high-end fashion brands for potentially engaging subcontractors who subjected Chinese workers in Italy to exploitative conditions, according to documents released Thursday by a local prosecutor.

The prosecutor's request, reviewed by AFP, noted that luxury items including handbags, wallets, and clothing were discovered during inspections of Italian workshops employing Chinese laborers under harsh conditions. While the brands are not formally under investigation, they have been asked to promptly submit documentation regarding their supply chains, including internal audits.

The list includes Gucci, Yves Saint Laurent, and Alexander McQueen, all part of the French luxury group Kering, as well as Givenchy, owned by LVMH. Also mentioned are the Prada Group and its recent acquisition, Versace, along with Ferragamo, Pinko, Dolce & Gabbana, Missoni, Off-White, Coccinelle, and Adidas.

Previous probes in Milan have targeted Tod's, Loro Piana, Diors Italian subsidiary Manufactures Dior, Giorgio Armani Operations, and Alviero Martini. The investigations focus on the widespread practice of luxury brands outsourcing work to multiple layers of suppliers, often resulting in minimal oversight of working conditions.

Under Italian law, companies can be held liable for illegal actions carried out by their representatives, including approved suppliers acting on their behalf. Industry Minister Adolfo Urso emphasized that the reputation of Italian brands is currently "under attack."

Author: Caleb Jennings