Apparel Manufacturers’ Path to World Class Corporate Social Responsibility: Perspectives of CSR Professionals

Abstract

This study examined world class corporate social responsibility (CSR) as it is practiced by apparel manufacturers to provide an understanding of what world class practices in CSR include and who the manufacturers are that are performing them, and to provide guidance to encourage and support a broader range of manufacturers to embrace greater CSR. Interviews with CSR professionals with extensive experience in the practices of apparel manufacturers’ world class CSR programs were described, with dominant practices involving a focus on workers, incorporation of management systems, and taking ownership for conditions in their factories. The interviews also provided information about the benefits that accrue to manufacturers pursuing world class CSR and how buying companies can support these efforts. The research is valuable because it provides buying companies criteria by which to assess their manufacturers’ CSR programs and guidance for how they can support improved CSR.