C&A shares Sustainability Report 2023, outlining progress and next steps for continued improvement

Düsseldorf, 10th October 2024 – C&A, one of Europe’s leading fashion retailers, reaffirms its deep-rooted commitment to people and planet and releases today its 2023 Sustainability Report, outlining its continued efforts to reduce environmental impact and promote sustainability within the fashion industry.

The report underlines C&A's ongoing progress, such as in sourcing core materials more sustainably and in reducing single-use plastic. C&A is committed to focusing on what it makes, how it’s made, and ensuring it benefits not only its customers but also the people in its value chain. This approach is rooted in sustainability, circularity, and responsibility, ensuring that every step of the process aligns with the company’s values. A strong dedication to equity, inclusion, and human rights remains at the core of C&A’s journey towards a more sustainable future.

Betty Kieß, Chief Communications Officer, C&A Europe, says: "We focus on using more sustainable materials, minimizing environmental impact, and supporting workers’ rights, while offering affordable clothing and helping consumers make informed choices.”

Key Achievements in the 2023 Sustainability Report:

  • 80% of core materials are sourced more sustainably: Core materials are cotton, polyester and regenerated cellulosic fibers, which account for 89% of our materials.

  • Reduction of single-use plastic by 36% against the baseline, showcasing C&A's commitment to reducing waste.

  • 80% of electricity purchased for own operations (C&A stores, distribution centers and C&A head offices) is from renewable sources, against 55% in 2022.

Other achievements comprise the inclusion of babywear into the Cradle to Cradle Certified® collection and providing financial protection to workers and their families Ithrough the pilot of an Employment Injury Scheme for Bangladesh’s ready-made-garment sector.

Looking Forward: Raised Ambitions for a Bolder Future

While acknowledging these achievements, C&A remains committed to its ongoing efforts to achieve meaningful and lasting positive impact. C&A continuously reassesses its targets to create meaningful impact across its value chain, with its renewed goals reflecting the company’s long-standing commitment to progress and innovation.

With over 180 years of history, C&A has always embraced change while maintaining its core commitment to democratizing fashion made in a more responsible way. Betty Kieß, Chief Communications Officer, C&A Europe, says: "Business can and must be a force for good. We are proud of our history and the progress we've made, and we fully recognize that achieving sustainability demands relentless dedication. Our teams have proven both the ability and willingness to make steady, progress toward a more responsible and sustainable future.”

To follow C&A’s ambitious journey on sustainability and find comprehensive details and data on the measures taken, please refer to C&A’s 2023 Sustainability Report here: https://www.c-and-a.com/eu/en/corporate/company/sustainability/reporting.

Download press release here

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About C&A Europe
With over 1,300 stores in 17 European countries and about 25,000 employees, C&A is one of Europe’s leading fashion retailers. Every day, C&A welcomes millions of visitors to its stores in Europe and to its online shop. C&A offers quality and long-lasting fashion at affordable prices for the many. For further information, please visit our website.

Press contact:
Betty Kieß, Chief Communications Officer

For any press inquiries, please contact:
press@canda.com

C&A Europe I Wanheimer Straße 70 I 40468 Düsseldorf

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