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27 February 2026

Headwear Professionals Achieve EcoVadis Gold Rating, Strengthening Global ESG Leadership

APPA Supplier Member Headwear Professionals has been awarded the prestigious EcoVadis Gold Sustainability Rating, placing the company among the top performers globally for environmental, social, and ethical responsibility .

The recognition reflects not only Headwear’s individual commitment to responsible business practices, but also the consolidated sustainability efforts of the broader Headwear Group, whose global data and performance underpinned the assessment.

A Significant Milestone in ESG Performance

EcoVadis is one of the world’s most recognised providers of business sustainability ratings, evaluating organisations across four key pillars:

  • Environment
  • Labour & Human Rights
  • Ethics
  • Sustainable Procurement

Achieving Gold status signals that Headwear is operating at a high international benchmark, reinforcing its position as a sustainability leader within the promotional products industry .

Peter Barblett, International Director, highlighted the collaborative nature of the achievement:

“This milestone reflects our ongoing commitment to responsible and sustainable operations. With using data from all our branches, it represents the collective progress of our global group. We advance together as one organisation.”

Built on Strong, Established Standards

The EcoVadis rating further strengthens an already embedded sustainability framework across Headwear’s operations. Key initiatives include:

SEDEX-Audited Manufacturing

The Group’s manufacturing facility undergoes SMETA audits through SEDEX, supporting ethical, safe, and environmentally responsible production practices .

An Expanding Eco Range

Headwear continues to grow its Eco Range, offering products made from 100% recycled materials and 100% organic cotton — providing lower-impact alternatives for brands seeking responsible merchandise solutions.

Oeko-Tex Standard 100 Certified Core Styles

Core product lines are produced using Oeko-Tex Standard 100 certified materials, ensuring products meet rigorous safety and environmental criteria .

For APPA members and the broader promotional products community, these initiatives reflect a clear alignment with increasing client expectations around transparency, traceability, and ethical sourcing.

Supporting Responsible Growth Across Global Supply Chains

As sustainability standards continue to evolve across global supply chains, Headwear has reaffirmed its commitment to continuous improvement and transparent reporting .

Nik Mirich, President & Owner of Headwear USA, emphasised that sustainability is an ongoing journey:

“Sustainability is not a static target. This recognition reinforces our commitment to ongoing advancement and responsible leadership across the Headwear Group.”

The EcoVadis Gold rating validates the progress already made while supporting the company’s long-term plans for responsible growth, innovation, and improved environmental performance.

Learn More

For more information about the EcoVadis sustainability assessment methodology, visit:
https://ecovadis.com/solutions/ratings/

For further details regarding Headwear’s ESG initiatives, members are encouraged to contact their local Headwear branch.

 

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