History of Uniqlo in Timeline

Uniqlo is a Japanese casual wear designer, manufacturer, and retailer operating as a subsidiary of Fast Retailing Co., Ltd. Known for its high-quality, functional basics and innovative fabrics like Heattech and AIRism, Uniqlo focuses on providing affordable, stylish, and comfortable clothing for everyone. Clare Waight Keller is the creative director. With a global presence and a commitment to sustainability, Uniqlo has become a major player in the international fashion industry, emphasizing simple designs and technological advancements in textile development.

January 2015: Revelations of labor violations

In January 2015, Uniqlo faced revelations regarding labor violations within its supply chain, prompting the company to introduce remedial measures.

November 2015: Uniqlo remedies found partially successful

In November 2015, investigations revealed that the remedies Uniqlo introduced after the January 2015 revelations were only partially successful in addressing labor violations, with significant issues persisting.

October 2016: Report exposes abuse of Chinese garment workers

In October 2016, a report titled "This Way to Dystopia: Exposing UNIQLO's Abuse of Chinese Garment Workers" by SACOM and War on Want, alleged that Uniqlo factories in China and Cambodia still had "excessive overtime, low pay, dangerous working conditions and oppressive management".

2019: Reports of bullying and toxic work culture

In 2019, Australian workers reported a toxic work culture at Uniqlo, including bullying, harassment, and unrealistic work demands such as folding seven shirts per minute.

January 2021: Uniqlo shirts blocked at US border

In January 2021, Uniqlo shirts were blocked at the US border due to concerns about forced labor in the production of cotton products from Xinjiang.

March 2022: Uniqlo to stop operating in Russia

Initially deciding to remain in Russia, citing that clothing is a necessity, Fast Retailing announced on 10 March 2022, following backlash, that it would cease operations in Russia, due to operational challenges and the worsening conflict situation.