Gap joins alliance for Bangladesh worker safety

The Alliance is structured and accountable through benchmarks and incentives to ensure the Bangladeshi government has a vested interest in safeguarding and reinforcing systemic, sustained change through government regulation and enforcement.

As a founding member of the Alliance, Gap Is committed to providing funding for a worker safety program that directly supports comprehensive factory inspections, safety training and readiness, worker empowerment initiatives and financial assistance to affected workers.                 

"The plan is a significant step toward achieving safer factory conditions for garment workers in Bangladesh," said Glenn Murphy, chairman and chief executive officer of Gap Inc. "Gap Inc. has a robust Fire and Building Safety Program underway in Bangladesh and we are close to completing fire and building safety inspections at the approximately 70 factories where we do business.”

Murphy added: “The Alliance will allow us to closely coordinate with other major North American retailers and brands to improve fire and building safety standards in Bangladesh.”

The agreement will be governed by an independent chair, supervised by a nine-person oversight board and managed by a third party that will work closely with local parties to implement and enforce safety measures.

About Gap 

Gap Inc. is a leading global retailer offering clothing, accessories, and personal care products for men, women, children, and babies under the Gap, Banana Republic, Old Navy, Piperlime, Athleta, and Intermix brands. Fiscal year 2012 net sales were $15.7 billion. Gap Inc. products are available for purchase in more than 90 countries worldwide through about 3,100 company-operated stores, over 300 franchise stores, and e-commerce sites. 

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