Chinese workers making shoes and other products for Wal-Mart are working in "sweatshop conditions" because of the retailer's pressure on suppliers' prices, says a new report.

Despite fears that companies might cast aside their social scruples during the recession as they battle for business and, in many cases, their very survival, some firms are taking steps to show that social commitment is not simply a matter

China's footwear suppliers are expecting strong sales growth in the next 12 months and are working to improve operating efficiency and lower costs as price competition intensifies, a new report says.

The Indian government yesterday (25 November) rejected local industry calls to ban cotton exports to try to stabilise yarn and fabric prices, saying there are sufficient cotton stocks in the country.

International Brand Licensing Plc is planning to sell off its Admiral and Muscle Athletic sports and fashion brands and switch its entire business focus onto the medical diagnostics industry.

Organisers of the ITMA trade show are broadening its reach to include technologies for garment making, alongside its more traditional focus on the textile sector.

British fashion retailer Alexon Group Plc today (26 November) posted a 14% drop in third-quarter like-for-like sales, and says it expects margins to take a hit from tough competition on price over Christmas and into the January sales.

Black Friday is upon retailers once more, and while a return to profitability is unlikely for many after a tough 2009, the one-day sales bonanza presents a last-ditch opportunity ahead of the holiday season. Joe Ayling reports.

German sporting goods firm Adidas is following in the footsteps of mail order giant Otto Group by setting up a social business model in Bangladesh that will create local jobs and operate on a non-profit basis.

Plans by sports apparel and footwear maker Adidas to shift production of National Basketball Association (NBA) jerseys away from a New York-based supplier to a factory in Thailand have drawn angry comments from a New York Democratic senator.