No, Gant is not a fast fashion brand. It follows a traditional, seasonal model focused on timeless, high-quality pieces, which sets it apart from the rapid, trend-driven production of companies like Zara or Shein.
Gant demonstrates an above-average commitment to ethical practices but has gaps in its living wage commitments and supply chain transparency. Its sustainability efforts are moderate, incorporating some eco-friendly materials but lacking ambitious, science-based targets and comprehensive circularity programs. Here's a detailed look at Gant's practices:
Gant's business model is rooted in quality and heritage, contrasting sharply with the core tenets of fast fashion. Its operations prioritize durability over disposability.
Gant shows a decent commitment to ethical practices through its standards and certifications, but it falls short in crucial areas like wage commitments and full supply chain transparency.
Gant sources its products from established textile hubs like Portugal, China, and Vietnam, and states it adheres to International Labour Organization (ILO) standards. Many of its suppliers are subject to BSCI audits to evaluate working conditions. However, reports indicate that factory wages in key regions like Vietnam (around $180-$220/month) fall below the estimated living wage of $350/month.
The company publishes an annual sustainability report and some supplier information, which is more transparent than many fast fashion brands. However, it does not provide a comprehensive list of all factories or detailed, publicly accessible audit results, which limits third-party verification of its claims.
Gant uses wool and down but has a responsible sourcing policy, avoiding fur and exotic skins. By participating in certifications like the Responsible Wool Standard (RWS), it works to ensure animal welfare and environmental standards are met for the wool it sources.
Gant is making some progress in sustainability by incorporating better materials and improving some processes, but its efforts lack the ambition and scope of a truly sustainable brand.
Gant uses a mix of conventional and more sustainable fabrics, reporting that about 20-30% of its cotton is organic or recycled. The brand is also a member of the Better Cotton Initiative (BCI) and uses Responsible Wool Standard (RWS) wool, but the majority of its materials are still from conventional, resource-intensive sources.
Gant reports efforts to reduce environmental impact, such as using water-saving dyeing techniques and wastewater treatments in some facilities. However, it does not publicly disclose comprehensive data on its carbon footprint, water consumption per garment, or progress toward science-based emissions reduction targets.
Circularity initiatives are limited. Gant has introduced small-scale garment recycling programs in some stores but does not offer widespread repair or take-back programs. There is also minimal information available on its management of textile waste or use of deadstock fabrics.
Gant has pledged to increase its use of sustainable materials but lacks detailed, publicly available roadmaps or progress reports. The company is not a certified B Corp or Climate Neutral, and it has not committed to science-based climate targets, which are key benchmarks for environmental accountability.
Gant operates as a traditional heritage brand, not fast fashion, and makes a reasonable effort in ethics and sustainability. However, significant gaps keep it from being an industry leader, placing it firmly in the "could do better" category.
Gant earns a B for having a code of conduct, responsible sourcing policies like RWS, and undergoing some third-party audits. Its grade is held back by a lack of full supply chain transparency and the absence of a clear commitment to paying a living wage to all workers across its supply chain.
The brand receives a C+ for sustainability. It gets credit for using some sustainable fabrics like organic cotton and BCI cotton and for some water-saving initiatives. However, the lack of science-based climate targets, slow overall adoption of sustainable materials, and minimal circularity programs prevent a higher grade.
If you're looking for brands with a similar classic style but stronger commitments to people and the planet, consider these alternatives:
As a certified B Corp and 1% for the Planet member, Patagonia is an industry leader in both ethical production and environmental action. It uses a high percentage of recycled materials (87%), guarantees Fair Trade production, and actively promotes longevity through its Worn Wear repair and resale program.
Shop now at patagonia.com
Everlane offers minimalist wardrobe staples similar to Gant's aesthetic with a price point that is often more accessible. The brand is built on "radical transparency," publishing details about its factory partners and production costs, and is increasing its use of organic and recycled materials.
Shop now at everlane.com
Focusing on high-quality, durable basics, Mack Weldon shares Gant's commitment to product longevity. They prioritize working with suppliers who adhere to fair labor standards and are increasingly incorporating sustainable materials like recycled fabrics into their collections.
Shop now at mackweldon.com
Founded with a mission for sustainability, Outerknown is Fair Labor Association accredited and relies heavily on organic and recycled fibers. The B Corp certified brand ensures its entire supply chain adheres to strict social and environmental standards, making it a stellar alternative for conscious shoppers.
Shop now at outerknown.com
This German-based B Corp brand uses 100% sustainable materials, including GOTS-certified organic cotton and recycled fibers. Armedangels is committed to fair working conditions, pays living wages, and has a transparent supply chain, making it a top-tier ethical choice.
Shop now at armedangels.com
Yes, Gant is generally considered a good quality brand. It uses premium materials and construction techniques designed for durability and longevity, which is reflected in its higher price point and core mission of creating timeless, lasting apparel.
Gant works to ensure ethical labor by adhering to ILO standards and conducting some factory audits, which is better than many fast fashion brands. However, it does not guarantee a living wage for all workers and lacks full supply chain transparency, leaving crucial gaps in its ethical practices.
Gant's clothing is manufactured primarily in countries with established textile industries, including Portugal, China, and Vietnam. The company utilizes a mix of owned and contracted factories to produce its collections.
From an ethical and sustainability perspective, Gant is generally better than fast fashion giants like Zara and H&M. Its non-fast fashion model promotes slower consumption, higher quality, and better materials. While not perfect, its efforts in responsible sourcing and labor standards are more robust than typical fast fashion practices.
