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Poole-based children’s clothing company, Kite, today shared its expertise in ‘planet-friendly’ trading with business leaders from the South West.
The firm was invited to take part in a summit at the Olympic sailing hub in Weymouth, with the aim of boosting trade and investment in the region. Organised by government-backed UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) and The British Business Club, the summit is part of the ‘British Business Embassy’ programme, which runs in parallel with the games and is the largest and most ambitious set of trade and investment events yet held in this country.
Kite Director Roger Hakes joined panellist contributors from Organix and Clipper Teas at a presentation by the Soil Association on the importance of sustainability at every stage of business, from supply chain to end consumer. Kite, which makes clothing for children from 0-11 years old, was asked to participate because of its approach to ethical and environmental trading.
“When we started in 2007 we wanted Kite to be a sustainable business, which meant looking closely at every stage of our operation and making sure we were doing the right thing,” Hakes explained.
“We care about our suppliers and their employees, and want to work with them from field to factory in an ethical manner. And because we care about the planet, we want to produce garments with the least impact on the environment. That’s why you won’t find any harmful pesticides in our cotton fields, or our factory workers using chemicals when we can find a natural alternative – such as using enzymes from apple juice to give our jeans a lived-in look, for instance.
“The steps we have taken have led to our products being certified by the Soil Association to the Global Organic Textile Standard – which is something that appeals to a growing number of consumers and makes us feel good, too. We’re delighted to have been invited to share our experiences today, and with any luck our story will inspire other businesses in the South West to think more about the importance of sustainability.”
For further information about Kite’s organic and ethical credentials, visit www.kite-kids.co.uk.
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