It is a shame that sweatshop conditions exist in the 20th century. Through collective action with other retailers, suppliers, government, and trade associations, we must ensure unfair manufacturing practices are brought to a halt.

Kmart wants our customers to be proud of the clothes they buy from us. That's why we have a long-standing tradition of working with reputable suppliers who share the same principles of producing quality products.

Our Workplace Code of Conduct articulates the standards we insist be met. It is a simple agreement with a strong message. We reserve the right to terminate the relationship with any supplier if we find a factory producing goods for Kmart to be unsafe or engaging in unfair and unethical employment practices.

Collectively, retailers can be clear and consistent in their labor-law monitoring and enforcement policies; manufacturers and contractors must be responsible for all of the facilities they source; government and policy leaders must continue to monitor and offer guidance; and trade organizations can support their members through education to improve upon industry practices. Together, we can eliminate sweatshops, for good.