Purchase

The risk of purchasing down and feathers obtained using cruel methods is minimal. Worldwide the volume of feathers and down obtained from live birds is only approx. 2% of the total volume. In order to offer customers even greater assurance in future, the manufacturers who are organised in our association have committed to full documentary traceability of the goods they purchase. Each company knows exactly where they have purchased the filling material, which is generally a by-product following slaughter. Our companies also impose an obligation on their suppliers’ suppliers to track the goods, thus closing the circle. The information provided is verified by neutral institutes by means of sample checks and audits.

 

Until this traceability system is being implemented extensively, our customers may obtain information from the respective vendors of bedding articles. As the vendor knows where he sources his goods, he can provide information.
 

Around 98% of down and feathers are obtained as a by-product after the birds have been slaughtered and thus will accrue regardless of whether there is a demand for bedding articles or not. Geese and ducks are being kept for the purpose of meat production. Down and feathers are just by-products.