Unethical labor practices have been detected at factories in Turkey which supply global fashion brands. As brands up their transparency efforts in relation to environmental impact, closer attention is likely to be given to their labor practices as well. Some of these brands are found to be breaking their sanctioned code of conduct and, even more damaging, their own standards.

Garment workers are subject to severe reprisals, punishments and even dismissals for attempting to unionize. Additionally, workers work hours exceeding the legal limit and many factories’ evacuation routes and emergency exits are not up to par.

Major fashion companies rarely own factories where their garments are made but sometimes they do and violations take place nonetheless. French leather goods house Hermès faced continued pressure from the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals following the activist organization’s allegations in June 2015 of mistreatment of alligators and crocodiles that eventually become its handbags and watches.

As fashion brands advertise their spring collection to the fashion world, and boast record earnings to investors, it would be wise for executives to pay attention to consumer concerns. Fashionable people simply don’t want to wear clothing made by exploited workers. Likewise, consumers who choose to purchase leather goods do so in hopes that the animal was fairly treated.