Haelixa has entered into a partnership with C&A, a leading European fashion retailer, to enhance the traceability of organic cotton within its supply chain. This initiative supports C&A’s commitment to sustainability by promoting organic cotton farming that avoids synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, which is essential for healthier ecosystems and reduced costs for farmers.
The collaboration, which originated from a pilot project in 2022, will see Haelixa utilize its DNA markers on organic cotton for the next three years. These markers will enable C&A to track the cotton from its agricultural origins to the final garment stage. C&A has indicated its ongoing efforts to foster organic farming practices through partnerships with other organizations, as outlined in its Sustainability Report.
“C&A is committed to transparency and ethical sourcing,” said Alexandre Saus-Salas, Head of Sourcing at C&A. The company plans to gradually implement Haelixa’s DNA technology, with broader impacts expected by 2025.
Haelixa’s approach involves applying unique DNA markers to the cotton, which is then verified using forensic PCR testing throughout the supply chain. This process not only ensures product authenticity but also mitigates the risk of sourcing from regions linked to forced labor, allowing C&A to confidently claim the organic status of its products.
Patrick Strumpf, CEO of Haelixa, remarked on the importance of trust in sustainability efforts, stating that tracing organic cotton empowers brands to share credible stories with consumers.
This partnership highlights the potential for collaboration in driving sustainability in the fashion industry, demonstrating that innovation can enhance both accountability and consumer trust.
