For fashion companies that have operated with unbridled freedom over the years, the trend of social responsibility can feel like a millstone around the neck. Indeed, for a long time, many major brands were inclined toward “greenwashing” to portray themselves as more environmentally friendly than their actions warranted.
Today, more are finding that profitability and sustainability are not incompatible, according to a new study by A.T. Kearney, a global management consulting firm based in New York City. “Doing good,” in fact, can often translate into heftier profits.