Trouble mounts for Primark

Primark may be financially successful, but its ethical record is not so bright, especially after yesterday. 

Primark, known for its cheap garments and a symbol of the fast fashion phenomenon, had to launch an investigation yesterday as an undercover investigation carried by The Observer and BBC showed that workers were being abused of their rights at Manchester based TNS Knitwear, one of its suppliers.

The textile firm which produces garments for Primark was found to be employing illegal immigrants, mostly Indians, Afghans and Pakistanis. These were allegedly being paid £3 an hour – just over half the minimum wage of £5.73 – for 12-hour days, seven days a week in a damp and cramped environment.

Primark argued in a statement that TNS Knitwear was a ‘relatively small supplier’. But this hasn’t stopped ethical trade watchdog ETI from revoking its label from Primark stores last Friday. 

Primark is considered as the fastest growing retail chain in Britain. Thanks to its success, the chain’s holding company posted  £8.2 billion in revenues last year.

The question is: If Primark took the case of a ‘small supplier’ so seriously, how would a Maltese businessman have acted were the press to uncover any ethical wrongdoing?

Also, isn’t it high time Government starts promoting the idea of ethical standards in employment and business?

Video: Customers flocking into Primark’s Oxford Street Store on its opening day. This store is Primark’s jewel in the crown.