Cotton

Use

As a natural material, cotton is especially breathable and durable, making it ideal for use in numerous products, including shirts and suits, knitwear and jerseys, bodywear and jeans. In 2025, cotton comprised around 56% of all our materials used.

Impacts*

Cotton plants need water to grow. Especially in dry areas, the water requirement often has to be supplemented by artificial irrigation. In conventional cotton cultivation, synthetic chemical pesticides and fertilizers are generally used to protect the valuable crop from pest infestation and to promote its cultivation. In addition, fertilizers may also be used. This can lead to drinking water pollution and affect human health.

Cotton workers are also a potentially vulnerable social group whose rights must be protected.

*Summary of our own analyses of available studies and scientific literature

Targets

HUGO BOSS has set the target: By 2030, we aim for 100% of our main natural materials come from preferred sources*. In doing so, we prioritize regenerative agriculture as our first choice for cotton (*According to the HUGO BOSS material strategy). In 2025, 48% of our main natural materials came from preferred sources. 

Measures

Together with initiatives such as Raddis® Cotton, HUGO BOSS is working to increase the share of cotton sourced from regenerative agriculture. We also support the cultivation of organically grown cotton and use recycled cotton. 

The origin of the cotton used is also relevant for HUGO BOSS and is recorded based on information provided by suppliers.

Cotton Cultivation Countries

HUGO BOSS Material Strategy