Wellbeing Economy makes sound business sense

While at ACS Clothing near Glasgow, Mr Gray heard how a major creditor was so impressed with the business’s approach to fair work and environmental practices it agreed to convert a debt to equity – investing enough to ensure the firm could continue through the pandemic. Then in the later stages of COVID 19, an ethical investor became aware of ACS’s reputation and also took a stake.

Now the sustainable fashion company is expanding to take on 20 new apprentices - four graduates and 16 modern apprentices across textile care and its warehouse operations.

Mr Gray said:

“ACS Clothing is proof that fair work and sustainability make sound business sense.

“This imaginative and successful company captures what a wellbeing economy is all about - supporting a transition to net zero while practicing fair work principles such as paying the real Living Wage, listening to its workforce and offering apprenticeships and internships.

“In return its staff are incentivised, employee turnover is reduced and investors are increasingly attracted by its ethics and ethos.”

Chief Operating Officer Anthony Burns said:

"At the start of the pandemic, we faced significant financial strain, as suppliers demanded payment and customers halted orders, leading to a bleak outlook.

“However, our investment in circular business models, and our positive environmental and social impacts, were rewarded when Circularity Capital, a well-known Scottish ethical investment firm invested significantly in our business.

“At ACS our commitment to fair work is not just a choice, but a responsibility we owe to our communities. It is the unwavering dedication to create environments where dignity, equality, and justice thrive, ensuring that every individual's efforts are valued and rewarded without bias or exploitation."

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