Jack Wolfskin published a list of its manufacturers Sept. 5 in the first step of what it calls a transparency offensive. The German maker of outdoor gear said it will gradually create an outline of all the stages of production and make it available to the general public.


The company said the decision brings Jack Wolfskin one step closer to achieving a production and supply chain that is both transparent and free from harmful chemicals by 2020.


The list published Sept. 5, which can be viewed at http://www.jack-wolfskin.co.uk/Going-the-extra-mile-2.aspx#17, includes the addresses of direct suppliers and manufacturers across all three divisions; apparel, shoes and equipment.


These companies are categorized as “level 1” in order to distinguish them from earlier steps in the production process, such as the manufacturing of materials and extraction of raw materials. They are predominately found in Asia, though some are also located in Europe.

By publishing a detailed plan of action in the spring under the motto, “We go further”, Jack Wolfskin seeks to cement its status as an industry pioneer in the environmentally friendly management of chemicals. In extending its current responsibility for the product to include comprehensive responsibility for its production, Jack Wolfskin has made a commitment to transparency with regard to its manufacturers throughout the supply chain. The company aims to avoid all harmful substances, including fluorinated compounds, in its production process by 2020.


Helmholtz-Zentrum Geesthacht and Fresenius University of Applied Sciences are collaborating with Jack Wolfskin in order to achieve these goals through fundamental research as well as research into applications.