The world’s finest underwear – this is what Zimmerli of Switzerland stands for in the last 150 years. From the early days of its foundation by Pauline Zimmerli in 1871, sustainability has been an essential part of the company’s DNA. Based on carefully selected materials from local suppliers, all styles are handcrafted and made to last.
Responsible treatment of people and the planet is a fundamental part of Zimmerli of Switzerland’s mindset. This dedication is evident at their manufactory in Switzerland. To emphasize this tradition of sustainability, Zimmerli has chosen OEKO-TEX® STeP certification for its production facility.
OEKO-TEX® STeP is an independent certification for manufacturers in the textile and leather industry and is suitable for production facilities at all processing stages. Environmental measures can thus be communicated in a credible and transparent manner.
The basis of STeP certification is the holistic analysis and evaluation of sustainable manufacturing conditions. Requirements must be achieved in six modules: environmental management, environmental performance, social responsibility, health and safety, quality management, and chemical management. These requirements are verified in an initial audit. During further compliance audit, the focus is also on whether recommended measures in the comprehensive STeP reports have been implemented.
The company is scored overall and for each of the six modules. The STeP scoring system has levels (1-3). While Level 1 fulfils the minimum requirements, Level 2 signifies that good implementation exists with potential for further optimization. Level 3 certifies exemplary implementation. The overall facility score is the average of the individual module results.
Again, Zimmerli of Switzerland achieved top marks in the latest STeP audits. The Swiss textile company was rated in the highest level 3 in every single module. Thus Zimmerli of Switzerland outperformed the industry benchmark. This proves again the lived sustainable mindset as an integral part of Zimmerli of Switzerland.
How does a production facility earn OEKO-TEX® STeP certification like Zimmerli of Switzerland?
1. Fill out the application form and confirm the General Terms of Use.
2. After receiving access from the selected OEKO-TEX® institute, complete the web-based STeP assessment.
3. The institute evaluates the submitted information and documents.
4. The institute verifies the data collected during an on-site audit of the production facility.
5. After a successful verification the institute prepares a detailed audit report including a final evaluation and issues the STeP certificate, which is valid for 3 years.
This process takes an average of 3 months. The time and costs depend on the circumstances at the production site. Fees are based not only on the company size and applicable audit criteria, but also the extent to which environmental protection and social responsibility measures have already been implemented.
STeP is worth the effort and an important component of the OEKO-TEX® MADE IN GREEN label. The MADE IN GREEN label not only tests for harmful substances, but also guarantees that products were manufactured with sustainable processes under socially responsible working conditions. More info can be found here.
“At Zimmerli of Switzerland we walk the talk. Thanks to 150 years old brand values and continuous innovation we take responsibility and improve our business practices day by day. We are proud to offer our customers full transparency on our essentials thanks to the label OEKO-TEX® MADE IN GREEN”, says Renzo Sigrist, CMO at Zimmerli of Switzerland.
