Together with the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), exemplary partnerships between companies from the textile industry based in Germany and in developing countries were now honored with the German Sustainability Award Corporate Partnerships 2021. The award is the most prestigious award in Germany and one of Europe’s largest awards for ecological and social commitment. First place went to the partnership between the workwear and private fashion label Brands Fashion with Sags Apparels from India, followed by the partnership between the backpack specialist Deuter and Vina Duke in Vietnam in second place.
Contrary to the trend of frequently changing suppliers in order to gain economic advantages, Deuter has relied on its partnership with Vina Duke for over 25 years. With this kind of exclusive collaboration, Deuter is a pioneer in the outdoor industry and is not to be found there a second time, the jury said. Deuter has been a member of the Fair Wear Foundation since 2011, holding Leader Status since 2013. Deuter is also a member of the Alliance for Sustainable Textiles and a bluesign® system partner. Duke goes through the annual bluesign screening and works closely with Deuter on the further optimization of the production facilities.
Third place in the German Sustainability Award for Corporate Partnerships went to Kipepeo-Clothing from Stuttgart with Kiboko Leisure Wear in Kenya.
