Guess prefers plastics to leather
Fashion brand Guess has noted in its environmental and social governance report for 2024 that it has significantly expanded its “preferred materials” in handbags and footwear by replacing leather, nylon and virgin polyurethane with recycled polyester and recycled polyurethane.
It said negative publicity about animal welfare practices can lead to boycotts, decreased sales and damage to the brand's reputation. “NGOs, animal rights activists and other stakeholders can exert significant pressure, resulting in costly legal battles and public relations crises,” it said.
It did not use any certified leather in FY24 or 25 and has not set targets to do so.
It stated, “As part of our commitment to protect our environment, we aim for our use of animal-derived material in our products to uphold our commitment to the ethical and humane treatment of animals.”
However, it added: “Improving animal welfare practices often requires investments in infrastructure, training and technology, which can lead to higher production costs.”
The company reported revenues of almost $3 billion in the 2025 financial year.
