Over the past few decades, a spotlight has shone on companies who use “sweatshops”.  The highly popular brand, Gap, was one of these companies.  Although the Gap has made many efforts to rebrand itself “as a leader in ethical and socially responsible manufacturing”, they have been committed of using Indian sweatshops.

Children as young as 10 are forced to work 16-hour days hand-sewing the Gap logos on clothing.  The children are subjected to abuse, work conditions “close to slavery”, and receive the bare minimum pay.  Supervisors claim workers must “work off the fee” the owner paid initially. The Gap denied any involvement, blaming the vendors who violated their agreement to ban sweatshops.  Although the Gap took action immediately, they must create a plan which will prevent this from repeating.  It is unjust for the thousands of people who have to endure terrible conditions in order for a Western company to make a larger profit.

Society needs to realize the consequences they create when cutting costs.  Why are businesses making a substantial profit?  Why are we as consumers paying so little for clothing?  Where along the chain were cuts made in order for cheap prices?  Who had to suffer?  Whether it be the Gap or some other international company the goal is the same: to make money.

Sources:

http://www.theguardian.com/business/2007/oct/28/ethicalbusiness.india