Materials

We are committed to using natural resources responsibly. Population growth, pollution and climate change are leading to increased pressure on the planet’s resources. As a large retailer, we have a responsibility to use natural resources responsibly and source materials in a way that minimises environmental impact. As part of our sustainable materials strategy, we have identified a number of priority materials for our business.

The volume of material we use is one criteria we use to inform our prioritisation, strategy and roadmap. In our apparel business (excluding footwear and accessories) we draw on four key materials, with the following (approximate) breakdown of primary fibres in the 2023 financial year: cotton 66%, polyester 18%, cellulose 7%, nylon 6%and other 3%. Further, we conduct social and environment risk assessments on these materials - including assessments of country-specific factors – to ensure our strategies and action plans are targeted and proportionate to the scale of the risk. Drawing on this analysis, cotton, polyester and nylon, cellulose, wool and leather are the current priority textile fibres for our business. Our commitment to sustainable materials is further underpinned by our related targets in the areas of water, chemicals, and wastewater. We work closely with our suppliers on continuous improvement and to further reduce out impact, and we seek to apply new standards and emerging technologies as they become commercially viable. Further details on our challenge, our approach and progress can be found under each material topic.