Dutch asset manager Robeco has unveiled its Fashion Engagement Equities Strategy, designed to actively engage with all the companies in the sector within its portfolio. The fashion industry generates annual turnover of US$2.5 trillion and employs over 300 million people globally but faces escalating challenges regarding social and environmental responsibility. According to Robeco, while future growth is propelled by factors such as population expansion and rising disposable incomes, issues such as subpar garment worker pay and the industry’s contribution to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions “cannot be overlooked”. Robeco’s new strategy will invest in and engage with 30 to 40 publicly listed companies across the entire fashion value chain. The focus will be on areas such as sourcing, production, consumption, and end-of-life considerations. The selection process will prioritise companies aligned with megatrends like casualisation, premiumisation, circularity, and automation. Dora Buckulčíková, Portfolio Manager at Robeco, said: “Our conviction is that profit and positive change can go hand in hand. There is increasing demand for the fashion industry to transform. Companies with leading sustainability characteristics are likely to do better than laggards in the long run.” Buckulčíková highlighted the responsibility of long-term shareholders to foster transparency and sustainable practices. “We believe this strategy positions investors to benefit from and contribute to the fashion industry’s sustainable transition.”
