CSR & textile imports: a reconcilable paradox?

The necessary challenge of a polluting industry.

(By Olivier DEROULOU, CSR Manager – DUTEXDOR Group)

Can textile imports be reconciled with social responsibility?

It's a question that many avoid, but one that the DUTEXDOR Group has chosen to tackle head-on. Importing textiles while being genuinely committed to CSR is no easy task. But it's not only possible, it's become necessary. We know that producing far away, at low cost, and in large volumes is one of the sector's major environmental responsibilities. But it is time to move away from the easy shortcut of "imported = irresponsible."

We believe that an international textile model can be demanding, traceable, and genuinely respectful. And at DUTEXDOR, we prove it every day.

A polluting sector, but one that accepts responsibility

The textile industry is structurally polluting. Depleted resources, mass production, intercontinental transport, non-recycled waste: the situation is clear. But responsibility begins with acknowledging this. This is the stance adopted by the DUTEXDOR Group: transparency, clarity, and progressive action.

On our commitments website (dutexdor.com/engagements), we lay out the foundations of our approach: supplier monitoring, social and quality audits, choosing more virtuous materials, reducing packaging, and logistics control. We know we are not perfect. But above all, we know that we have the means and the will to do better. Not tomorrow. Today.

Realistic solutions, a daily commitment

Contrary to some extreme views, we believe that CSR should not be reserved for a few premium niche brands. It must be compatible with a volume model that is accessible and widely distributed, such as the one promoted by the DUTEXDOR Group.

Among our concrete levers for action:

● Work only with certified suppliers (BSCI, WRAP, OEKO-TEX®).

● Regularly audit our factories through our purchasing office, BNC Eversuccess.

● Optimize logistics flows to reduce unnecessary transportation.

● Develop products made from recycled or organic materials.

● Limit excess inventory, design better, produce less.

● Eliminate excess packaging and promote recycling.

● Supporting our distributor customers in their own initiatives (limited returns, improved sustainability).

An honest approach, far from greenwashing

We reject advertising shortcuts and grandiose promises. What we say, we do. And what we do, we show.

The DUTEXDOR Group does not claim to be perfect, but it is consistent:

● We do manufacture overseas, yes.

● We do this to ensure affordable prices for our partners and customers.

● But we do it well: with high standards, oversight, and a desire to improve.

CSR as a lever for transformation in the sector

Meeting this challenge is not just a matter of compliance. It is a strategic choice. For us, CSR is neither a trend nor a constraint: it is the meaning of our profession tomorrow. Dressing, creating, and distributing on a large scale, while showing greater respect for the planet and those who make it go round.

It's a challenge. But above all, it's a commitment. And at DUTEXDOR, it's a promise.