The Factory
The factory we work with in India is called Pratibha Syntex Limited in Indore, Madhya Pradesh and we love them!
Pratibha Syntex Ltd (PSL) a company with ethics, excellence and the environment sewn right into its core, and, I am delighted to say, the makers of our wonderful fairtrade and organic pants. Pratibha means talent and, as you’ll see below, not only, do they make exceptionally good pants, but they also meet the highest possible standards in terms of pay, safety, health and the environment.
They have every certification we could dream of and also run a series of great programmes to support their staff and the environment. But in addition to this they also go even further by working on the projects below!
LIVING WAGES
Unlike most factories in India, all skilled workers are paid considerably more then the minimum wage for the region in India to ensure that everyone has a good, living wage!
EMPOWERING WOMEN:
Many management positions filled by women and dynamic new programmes for women empowerment at all levels of the organisation.
For example:
- 1,000 women now work at the factory (approximately 1/3 of all staff)
- Women are given separate accommodation and canteens (at no extra cost).
- Self defence classes for women launched in 1st week of April 2008
EXTENSIVE TRAINING PROGRAMME:
As a high level of skill is required for textile manufacturing training is an essential part of the work conducted by Pratibha’s Human Resources department. The importance of effective training is further bolstered by the massive recruitment that is ongoing at the plant to meet the increasing demand for its great work. Training focuses on both work and personal areas including:
- Technical training to include Spinning, Knitting, Stitching etc.. as necessary.
- Workers rights training: in relation to working hours, minimum wage, child labour in compliance with ISO 9001.
- Yoga
OTHER STAFF INITIATIVES:
- A dedicated staff hospital
- Subsidised food
- Free accommodation
- Free transport
- Blood donation camp
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AND PROMOTION:
The textile industry is renowned for being one of the worst polluting industries and so Pratibha, in order to leave a positive impact on the planet, invests heavily in effective waste management:
- 95% of water is recycled within the plant
- All waste is controlled within the plant
- 100 trees are planted per month (in excess of 25,000 to date)
- Participate in global campaigning events such as WWF’s Earth Hour
Pratibha really do seem like the change that we need to see in the garment industry… open, honest and committed to a new way of doing business and, I am delighted to say, excellent at making great pants! With the committed talent of Pratibha on our side we know that our suppliers are truly supporting mother nature and putting real power into our pants!
