More Stores Stop Angora Production – Thanks, New Look and Esprit!

Further people-powered progress in the campaign against the cruel production of angora wool – global fashion brands New Look and Esprit have suspended angora production over animal-welfare concerns.

In a statement, New Look said: “[W]e have taken action and put our angora production on immediate hold”. Likewise, Esprit said: “As long as the industry lacks credible certification and proof that it complies with according policies on animal welfare, Esprit imposes a ban on Angora wool”.

Angora, which is used to make gloves, sweaters, hats and scarves, comes from the fur of long-haired angora rabbits, and 90 per cent of angora wool is produced in China, where PETA Asia’s recent investigation has revealed that workers often rip the fur from the rabbits’ skin in handfuls while they’re conscious. As you would imagine, these timid animals are in agony while this happens. Wool obtained in this way is longer than fur obtained from shearing and so commands a higher price on the market – although as our video shows, shearing is also a traumatic and terrifying ordeal for rabbits.

PETA’s shocking video, exposing these barbaric practices, has already been seen by more than 150,000 people and has been making waves in the fashion world. The compassionate decisions by New Look and Esprit come hot on the heels of similar announcements from Swedish retailers H&M, Acne, Lindex, MQ and Gina Tricot. We’d like to say a big thanks to all these companies for listening to consumers. The next step is for them to commit to a full and permanent ban on angora products.

Fortunately, plenty of cosy, super-soft alternatives to animal-derived fabrics are widely available on the high street. Remember to check the label before you buy in order to make sure that no bunny suffered for your fashion choices. And if you’re looking for cruelty-free Christmas shopping ideas, check out our handy guide here.

Compassionate PETA supporters who have been contacting shops to challenge the sale of angora deserve credit for all the wonderful progress so far! Please, let’s build on this momentum – keep on sharing the video and speaking out when you see other stores selling angora.