Italian Handbag Maker's Plea: End Subcontracting Abuse

Italian Handbag Maker Exposes Subcontracting Exploitation: A Call for Industry Reform In a recent video, Ornella Auzino, owner of a handbag factory in Italy, shed light on the dark side of subcontracting in the Italian leather goods industry. Auzino, known for her commitment to ethical manufacturing, highlighted the widespread exploitation of independent workers, many of whom are forced to work for extremely low wages due to multiple layers of subcontracting. The practice, she explains, creates a system where responsibility is diffused and workers are easily overlooked. "Basta sub appalto e basta sfruttamento," Auzino declares in her video, which translates to "Enough subcontracting and enough exploitation." She points to instances where subcontractors are paid barely enough to cover their costs, leaving them vulnerable and with little recourse. The lack of transparency and accountability in the multi-tiered subcontracting system allows for widespread abuse, she argues. Auzino proposes a solution: eliminating second-level subcontracting. She believes this would create a more stable market, allowing for fairer wages and improved working conditions for independent artisans. By consolidating the supply chain, brands would be more directly responsible for the treatment of their workers, fostering greater accountability. This, she hopes, will lead to a more sustainable and ethical Italian leather goods industry. Auzino's video has sparked significant online discussion, highlighting the need for greater transparency and ethical practices in global supply chains. Her call for reform resonates with many who are concerned about worker rights and the future of traditional craftsmanship.