Centric Brands' response to 2nd Transparentem rejoinder (December 2024)

Centric Brands is deeply committed to ethical sourcing and the protection of workers' rights. When concerns at Denim De I'Ile (DDI) first arose, we took immediate and proactive steps to ensure the matter was thoroughly addressed. This included engaging a reputable, independent audit firm to conduct an initial investigation following international best practices and collaborating with other brands to support a follow-up investigation.

We have approached this situation with a focus on transparency, accountability, and the best interests of the workers. While Centric Brands responsibly concluded our business relationship with DDI in February 2023 as part of a broader strategic decision made prior to the investigation’s conclusion, we remain confident that the brands with ongoing relationships will continue to work toward effective remediation for the workers involved.

Although Centric Brands has exited its sourcing relationship with DDI, we support efforts to ensure that the factory fulfills its obligations to its workforce. However, given our departure from DDI, we have stepped back from participation in the ongoing brand group collaboration. We believe it is now the responsibility of the factory, which remains operational, to address these issues and ensure appropriate compensation and protections for its workers.

We hope this message provides clarity regarding Centric Brands’ position and actions to date. We remain committed to upholding responsible practices across our current supply chain and appreciate the opportunity to share our perspective.