Primark criticised for shredding clothes

Value fashion retailer Primark has come under fire for its policy

of shredding unwanted and damaged clothes. Aid organisations criticised the retailer for not seizing the opportunity to raise charitable funds, arguing that donations of unsaleable goods to charities will avoid waste.

Primark insists the practice is common to protect consumers but many spectators are unconvinced.

Mark Lucas, Retail Director at the British Heart Foundation, expressed his astonishment at the policy: "Stock is the lifeblood of our shops. We sell 80,000 items every day so the thought of high street outlets shredding their faulty garments is very worrying."

He continued: "By donating their unwanted items, it can only enhance their reputation as an ethical retailer."

British retailer Marks & Spencer (M&S) recently called on customers to clear out their wardrobes and donate unwanted clothes, including M&S labelled clothing - an initiative to help raise £1 million for Oxfam.