Fur fight on the high street

Thursday 13 October 2016

A range of winter warmers that have gone on sale on Jersey's high street has been freezing out some local customers, and re-ignited a social media debate about whether it's right or wrong to wear real fur.

Dozens of people have commented on Facebook about Voisins selling it this season, with some so disgusted they claim they'll be boycotting the store - while others argue it's no different to wearing leather or eating meat.

Sarah-Jane Ingram was the first to post how disgusted she was on the Good or Bad Jersey Businesses page.

In a response to her posting she said: "The use of an animal for fashion purposes is wrong, fur is a very controversial subject and one that is totally unnecessary. Shops do not have to sell this and by doing so they are giving a bad message to the public."

But Voisins say they have been very careful about where they have sourced their range of coats and ponchos from, which includes some made from racoon fur.

Voisins Department Store Chairman Gerald Voisin said: “As a fashion retailer, Voisins is committed to bringing customers a broad choice of brands and products.

“Animal welfare is important to us, and we are aware that across the industry, the sustainability and ethics behind fashion manufacturing is an area of growing concern for a number of customers.

“We have received assurances from our brands that the fur featured in the garments in store has been sourced ethically from certified suppliers.”

The issue has led to discussions on whether "any animal can be killed ethically" and how "we can all wear fur without the need to kill."

One user comments: "I think it's really unfair to complain about Voisins for selling fur - if you're happy for them to sell leather. If you don't like it, don't buy it."