Treatment of exotic animalsGeneva Time Exhibition committed to stricter control of supplies of exotic Leather
A Rundschau report broacast on the Swiss German-language channel Schweizer Fernsehen on October 7, denouncing the appalling treatment of exotic animals in certain dubious Asian outlets, has aroused indignant reaction among the watch industry. Along with the 60 brands exhibiting at the second edition of GTE (16-21 january 2011), the organizers of the Independent Watchmaking Fair have reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring better control of supplies of leather from exotic animals.
"The shocking images broadcast in the report must demand a reaction from the luxury industry, and notably from the watchmaking sector, which often uses exotic leathers for straps and bracelets" states GTE Fair Manager Florence Noël. "We are fully aware of the need to encourage Fair exhibitors to intensify checks on their supply sources." Geneva Time Exhibition’s organizers ask therefore their exhibitors to take adequate measures in order to ensure that their supply comes from approved suppliers who respect decent practice in the breeding and slaughtering of animals, in line with the fundamental principles of animal protection.
Geneva Time Exhibition is taking this initiative in accordance with the Federation of the Swiss Watch Industry.