Lacoste has confirmed to PETA that it will stop using angora wool to make products and has asked to be added to PETA’s growing list of angora-free retailers. The French clothier stated, “As part of its CSR policy, we can confirm that Lacoste has no plan to use angora fibers in its coming collections.”
According to PETA, whether the rabbits have been plucked or shaved, if a product is labeled “angora,” it means that rabbits suffered and the method for garnering the fiber was barbaric. Evidence of the angora process proves that rabbits suffer when they have their fur cut or sheared off. Their legs are tightly fastened while their bodies are stretched out over a board. Their skin is far too thin to withstand the sharp cutting tools and the rabbits can often be hanged in the air by their forelimbs for the shaving process.
PETA director Mimi Bekhenchi said, “By committing to ending all angora sales and pulling this vile product from its international websites and shelves, Lacoste has done the right thing for animals and consumers.”
She added, “Angora production is cruel, and PETA urges the few remaining retailers, including Benetton, to learn from Lacoste’s experience and show that cruelty to animals has no place in their stores. We have sent a box of vegan chocolates to the company’s headquarters in Paris, France, to thank Lacoste for its compassionate decision.”
China is the world’s leading producer of angora, accounting for 90 percent of global production. Currently, the Chinese government imposes no penalties for animal abuse.
There is no way to obtain angora responsibly and torture-free, provoking companies like Lacoste to switch to humane, animal-free fabrics, which are readily available. In October, fashion brand French Connected announced it decided to end the use of angora in its clothing accessories. H&M, Asos, All Saints and Tommy Hilfiger have also pledged their commitment to banning angora production.