Fashion Connections, part of HVEG Fashion Group, has achieved the Grüner Knopf certification — an important milestone that reflects the company’s commitment to responsible sourcing and transparent supply chains.
Within HVEG Group, companies work closely with international retail partners to design, develop, and deliver apparel and accessories for a wide range of markets. Fashion Connections contributes to this network by supporting the development and sourcing of collections for major retail partners, combining product expertise with a strong focus on reliable supply chain management. Headquartered in Gronau (North Rhine-Westphalia), Germany, the company works closely with retail partners in the German and wider European market, where the Grüner Knopf label is an increasingly recognised benchmark for responsible textile production.
A recognised standard for responsible textile production
The Grüner Knopf — also known as the Green Button — is a certification label developed by the German federal government for the textile sector and administered by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ). The label verifies that textile companies meet strict social and environmental standards and actively take responsibility for their supply chains. It is primarily aimed at companies operating in the German and European markets that want to demonstrate compliance with recognised due-diligence and production standards. To receive the certification, companies must demonstrate robust due diligence processes and meet rigorous requirements related to working conditions, environmental protection, and responsible production practices.
What makes the Grüner Knopf unique?
The Grüner Knopf evaluates both the company and the product. Organisations must show that they systematically identify and address human rights and environmental risks throughout their supply chains, while products must comply with recognised social and ecological standards. Independent certification bodies verify compliance with these requirements.
In practice, this means companies must meet dozens of detailed social and environmental criteria covering areas such as fair working conditions, occupational safety, responsible chemical use, and restrictions on harmful substances in textile production. These requirements apply across key production stages, including dyeing, bleaching, cutting, and sewing, and are independently audited to ensure compliance.
Strengthening transparency in the supply chain
For Fashion Connections, achieving the Grüner Knopf certification marks an important step in strengthening transparency and accountability within its sourcing and production processes. It also supports HVEG Group’s broader ambition to continue improving how products are developed and brought to market.
At HVEG Group, initiatives like this reflect a shared commitment to continuous improvement — living the principle of Better Every Day. Certifications such as Grüner Knopf also help strengthen trust with retail partners and customers who increasingly expect clear, verifiable standards for responsible production in the apparel industry.
