Gildan (asi/56842) has achieved its goal of sourcing 100% of its cotton sustainably.

Gildan (asi/56842) recently released its 22nd sustainability report.

That’s according to its recently published sustainability report, the 22nd of its kind from the Counselor Top 40 supplier, highlighting progress under what it describes as a “Next Generation Sustainability” strategy and ongoing efforts to create long-term value.

“Since its launch in 2022, our Next Generation Sustainability strategy has steadfastly guided our approach to making apparel with respect for the environment, our people and our communities,” said Glenn J. Chamandy, president and CEO of Gildan.

Last year, he added, “we saw notable advancements towards our targets.”

With the integration of Hanesbrands, the acquisition of which Gildan completed in December 2025, the supplier will be setting revised goals and scaling sustainability efforts to reflect its continued growth, Chamandy said.

In the report, Gildan gets more specific about what it considers to be sustainable cotton, a designation that includes cotton provided through third-party verified programs that support environmental and social improvements, and cotton from third-party verified programs – such as verified U.S.-grown cotton (USCTP), Better Cotton (formerly BCI), organic cotton, recycled or regenerative cotton, and fair-trade cotton.

Gildan also noted that it began using a third-party platform to strengthen cotton traceability.

Other highlights from the report include a reduction of water withdrawn per kilogram of fabric produced by approximately 25%, compared to a 2018 base year. It’s the second year in a row that Gildan has outperformed its target for water intensity reductions.

The supplier also increased the amount of recycled polyester and alternative fibers sources to 25.2% in 2025. Plus, it strengthened its commitment to health and safety, with nine Gildan-operated facilities achieving ISO 45001 certification by the end of 2025.

Gildan also highlighted its inclusion on various lists recognizing strong sustainability practices. It was featured in the Dow Jones Best-in-Class North America Index for the 13th consecutive year, included in the 2026 Sustainability Yearbook by S&P Global for the 14th consecutive year, recognized by CDP with an A- score for its 2025 climate change disclosure and awarded the FUNDAHRSE Socially Responsible Company Seal 2025, among other achievements.

The full 2025 sustainability report is available on Gildan’s corporate website, along with refreshed sustainability web pages featuring additional information on its approach to key sustainability topics.

Headquartered in Montreal, Gildan ranks third on Counselor’s most recent list of the largest suppliers in the industry, with 2024 North American promotional products revenue of $784 million. New rankings are due out in July.

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