Marks & Spencer reverses ban on alpaca wool

Marks & Spencer (M&S) has reversed its decision to ban alpaca wool, potentially sparking conflict with animal rights advocates. Initially, M&S banned alpaca wool in 2020 after the animal rights group PETA raised concerns about the welfare of animals used to produce the fibre. M&S pledged to phase out alpaca wool following an investigation that highlighted welfare issues.

However, M&S has recently announced it will reintroduce alpaca yarn into its clothing lines, citing the implementation of the Responsible Alpaca Standard (RAS) in supply chains. The company stated that RAS, which became available in 2021, provides the assurance needed to source alpaca fibre responsibly. M&S emphasized that RAS certification will now be the minimum standard for all alpaca fibre in their products.

M&S highlighted the value of alpaca wool’s quality and the traditional expertise involved in its production as reasons for the policy reversal. This move may lead to renewed scrutiny from animal rights groups, given the previous concerns over animal welfare in alpaca farming.