Kering and LVMH releases statements in response to PETA allegations

Kering and LVMH, two French luxury companies, have issued an official statement in response to PETA‘s charges of animal abuse in Asia.

PETA recently released the results of an investigation into an Indonesian slaughterhouse, which they claim is linked to how luxury fashion businesses manufacture their products. Gucci is accused of killing lizards in a “violent, inarguably brutal manner” for its accessories, according to the probe.

The organization states that the lizards’ legs are tied, then they’re callously flung around and beheaded without stunning—causing them a long, terrible death. Every one of Gucci’s lizard leather purses, belts, wallets, and other fashion accessories is made with this type of brutality.

PETA president Ingrid Newkirk has written to Kering and LVMH officials, urging them to stop employing exotic animals in their goods. Newkirk wrote in the letter that no bag, belt, or wallet is worth such pain and suffering, particularly given your designers have access to the most innovative and exquisite leathers.

Kering sent an official statement commenting on the situation and assuring customers that the company is still committed to following the highest standards of animal sustainability and labor conditions in its sourcing of valuable skins. As for the information brought to them by PETA regarding the mistreatment of lizards in an Indonesian processing facility, while they have taken these allegations very seriously, there is no evidence that Kering brands are directly or indirectly connected with this facility or those practices.

LVMH also released a statement stating that LVMH respects all perspectives and sensitivities on the use of animal-based raw materials and they support and are actively involved in the sector’s attempts to attain the best possible practices. Their goal is to offer clients a product that has been produced in the most responsible and ethical manner possible.