KiK and CALIDA Join ZDHC’s Mission as ZDHC Signatories!
In February 2025, two new organisations joined the ZDHC Committed Community. Notably, KiK has transitioned from the Signatory Friend of ZDHC Brand to ZDHC Signatory Brand, reflecting its strategic commitment to deepening KiK’s contributions to sustainable chemical management and environmental stewardship. Both KiK and CALIDA’s unique commitments strengthen our collective mission to advance sustainable chemical management practices in the textile and apparel industry.
KiK Textilien und Non-Food GmbH, has successfully transitioned from a ZDHC Signatory Brand Friend to a ZDHC Signatory Brand. By fully embracing the ZDHC Roadmap to Zero Programme, KiK aims to strengthen environmental practices across its supply chain, leveraging ZDHC’s robust guidelines and tools to support continuous improvement.
KiK Textilien und Non-Food GmbH offers affordable and good quality fashion, home textiles, household goods, and much more. With more than 32,000 employees, over 4,200 stores in 14 countries, and an annual turnover of 2.4 billion euros, KiK is one of Europe's largest retail companies. Responsible social and environmental practices are a key part of KiK’s business strategy.
Responsible handling of chemicals and wastewater in textile supply chains is an essential issue for KiK and is an integral part of KiK's sustainability strategy. They see the benefits of ZDHC membership and the Roadmap to Zero Programme, including the use of the ZDHC network and the guidelines and tools provided, as important instruments to support KiK’s suppliers in continuously improving their chemical and wastewater management. KiK believes that the ZDHC initiative is an excellent opportunity to leverage actual improvements in both environmental and social aspects along with other members.
"We regard the multi-stakeholder initiative ZDHC as a key player in abolishing hazardous chemicals in the textile industry. Improving ecological conditions and establishing a more sustainable way of managing chemicals is an important part of KiK’s strategy: At various levels we have been engaged in implementing and improving environmental standards along our supply chain. We strongly believe that industry-wide challenges can best be tackled by working together with reliable and like-minded partners. ZDHC provides the right leverage in this context. As we share the goals of cleaner water, cleaner air, and safer production we deem that initiative to be the perfect fit for us."
– Ansgar Lohmann, Director CSR at KiK Textilien und Non-Food GmbH
CALIDA, a leader in premium textiles, joins as a Signatory Friend of ZDHC Brand to strengthen its environmental efforts. By adopting ZDHC’s global standards, CALIDA enhances chemical management and wastewater practices throughout their operations.
CALIDA has been synonymous with Swiss quality, to the delight of people down the ages. Today, the long-established company sets the standard for the international premium segment with its incomparably comfortable, high quality and durable underwear, loungewear and sleepwear in an unparalleled array of designs. The entire collection is developed at the headquarters in Sursee (Lucerne) and manufacturing in East Europe is managed via the company’s own production platform in Hungary. Approximately 80 dedicated retail stores and around 2,500 retail partners bring the unique CALIDA experience to all target groups: Quality that captivates from the first moment. Comfort that offers lasting enjoyment.
Joining the ZDHC Roadmap to Zero Programme fully aligns with CALIDA’s commitment to minimising the environmental footprint across its entire supply chain. By implementing ZDHC’s global standards for chemical management and wastewater control, CALIDA further strengthens its dedication to protecting people and the environment. The programme complements its existing efforts to optimise resource usage, enhance wastewater management, and prioritise safer alternatives to hazardous chemicals, ensuring that CALIDA’s suppliers meet both their rigorous standards and additional regulations.
"At CALIDA, we see joining the ZDHC Programme as a vital step in our commitment to sustainability. It’s about taking responsibility—reducing harmful chemicals, improving chemical management, and protecting the environment we all share. This decision reflects our core values: creating high-quality products that respect both people and the planet. By contributing to this global initiative, we’re working to drive meaningful change for a better future."
– Coty Jeronimus, ESG Manager at CALIDA
Are you ready to lead the change towards a cleaner, safer, and more sustainable future? By becoming a ZDHC Signatory, your organisation can play a pivotal role in eliminating hazardous chemicals, improving environmental practices, and setting new industry standards.
Join a global network of like-minded leaders, including KiK and CALIDA, alongside many other committed brands, all dedicated to making a tangible impact. Together, we can drive meaningful change, protect our planet and create a legacy of sustainability.
Be part of the solution! Discover why you should join the ZDHC Roadmap to Zero Programme.
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