19 March 2021

BESTSELLER remains concerned about the escalation of violence and the unpredictability of the situation in Myanmar, which makes it very difficult to operate safely in the country. Of the 36 factories producing for BESTSELLER, only seven remain operational and all at reduced capacity. Inbound/outbound shipments and operations are highly unstable and the security situation is deteriorating in a way and at a speed that makes it difficult to carry on.

Consequently, BESTSELLER has decided to provisionally pause all new order placements in the country. This decision has been made with the intention of reengaging when operationally and ethically possible.

"We remain in close dialogue with our suppliers, trade unions, peers and in-country experts to understand how we can help mitigate the impacts on workers,” says BESTSELLER’s Responsible Sourcing Manager, Felicity Tapsell.

To the extent the situation allows, BESTSELLER will work diligently with suppliers to deliver on existing orders. Where this is not possible, the necessary steps will be taken to secure flow of goods.

In early 2020, BESTSELLER prohibited all BESTSELLER staff and business partners from engaging with companies affiliated with the military in Myanmar. Read more about this in our Statement on Myanmar of 22 February 2021 and in our Policy on Regions of Particular Human Rights Focus.