The 10 largest American cotton textile manufacturers in the USA joined the U.S. Cotton Trust Protocol, which was created to increase transparency in the textile supply chain. By becoming a member of the protocol, Buhler Quality Yarns, Cap Yarns, CCW, Contempora Fabrics, Cotswold Industries Inc., Frontier Yarns, Hamrick Mills, Inman Mills, Parkdale Inc., and Swisstex Direct were able to prove that they are an approved supply chain partner for brands and retailers who are sourcing more sustainably grown cotton.
Gary Adams, president of the U.S. Cotton Trust Protocol said; “One of our goals with the Trust Protocol is to give brands and retailers greater confidence when including U.S. cotton in their sourcing mix. Our emphasis on measurement and independent verification can provide confidence and trust that a brand is using quality, responsibly grown cotton and producing a product that consumers can believe in”. Adams noted that they are delighted that these U.S. mills have joined the Trust Protocol as that supports the much sought-after supply chain transparency and by using U.S. manufactured cotton products, brands and retailers are choosing a reliable and transparent partner right here in the USA.
Trust Protocol ensures transparency
Mills and manufacturers who become members of the Protocol have access to the Trust Protocol credit system; to validate consumption of cotton and associated credits. The combination of a unique credit accounting system; and the Permanent Bale Identification (PBI) system enables brands to have transparency throughout the supply chain to finished product.
The Protocol has been invited to join Cotton 2040 and its CottonUp guide; and also is on the Textile Exchange’s list of 36 preferred fibers and materials; that more than 170 participating brands and retailers can select from as part of Textile Exchange’s Material Change Index program.
In December the Protocol also announced Gap Inc. joined as part of its integrated sustainability strategy; and to help achieve its commitment to use only 100% sustainably-sourced cotton by 2025.