Why Our Ethos on Ethical Manufacturing Is More Important Than Ever Before
When we launched Mia Fratino in 2015, we had a very clear ethos: to maintain a truly ethical approach to fashion production.
Now in our fourth year of manufacturing from our Aussie-owned factory in Sri Lanka, our focus is more important than ever.
If you’ve been following the news, you’re aware that we’re experiencing a global trade crisis. The last few weeks have emphasised the vulnerability of a world economy where the manufacturing sector is concentrated to only a handful of regions and we’re seeing first-hand the flow-on effect this has for everyday life.
If you’re reading this, you probably share our vision and maybe our ethos was a contributing factor for shopping with us in the first place. We’re big believers that brands need to set standards for their customers or they risk being left behind.
A sustainable fashion ethos doesn’t end with a decision to manufacture outside of China either. By investing resources in countries like Sri Lanka and up-skilling employees in underdeveloped economies, we’re sharing in global market growth while expanding the reach of the garment industry.
Here’s what we’re doing at Mia Fratino.
We’re fully certified. Our Sri Lankan factory is fully certified to global SMETA, GOTS & OEKO-TEX standards. All our staff are afforded privileges and entitlements comparable to the conditions of an Australian or European factory. Amid the current crisis, the company is issuing hand sanitiser for take-home use for workers and providing face masks for all workers to take home to their elderly parents.
We’re helping to boost the local economy Mia Fratino trains women in senior technical roles, paving the way for a future of modern manufacturing where employees are given the opportunity to progress and develop while also becoming a valued contributor to the growth of the local economy.
Mia Fratino Foundation We proudly established a non-profit micro-finance organisation which has a community-based philanthropic focus, empowering women who are living in poverty. We’re now urging other brands to consider alternative, more ethical manufacturing, and you can help us by making the brands you buy from more accountable.
Consider looking into the following areas before you make your next purchase.
1. Where does the brand manufacture its products?
2. Are the working conditions safe. Is the company certified?
3. What contribution is the company making to the local economy. Are there any benefits aside from cost to the consumer?
It’s important to remember there are real people working behind the scenes of products manufactured overseas and it’s time we looked after each other on a global scale.
Read more about Mia Fratino’s ethical manufacturing and slow fashion commitment here.
