Notice Regarding Mislabeling of Cotton Product Composition and Return Process

Notice Regarding Mislabeling of Cotton Product Composition and Return Process
Thank you for your continued support of CFCL.

We have recently discovered that two of our products sold since July 1, 2024 (CF008KC044 / TC STRATUM STAND-UP COLLAR BOMBER JACKET and CF008KN133 / TC GARTER SHORT SLEEVE TEE SHIRT) were mistakenly labeled as containing "organic cotton." In reality, these items contain "Cotton-in-Conversion," which is organically grown but not yet certified as organic. Therefore, we will accept returns for the affected product. If you wish to return your items, please visit CFCL direct stores or contact us via the return request form.

We deeply regret any inconvenience this may have caused and sincerely apologize to our valued customers and everyone who trusts and supporters of CFCL.


【Background】
Our investigation has revealed that the incorrect labeling was caused by insufficient information management and communication between CFCL’s business partners, as well as an inadequate verification process from CFCL to obtain certification credentials in a timely manner.

Traditional cotton cultivation requires large amounts of water, chemical fertilizers, and pesticides which are problematic for soil, the wider environment, and human health. In comparison, organic cotton is grown through more sustainable methods that reduce environmental impact by limiting the use of these chemicals and pesticides. On the other hand, Cotton-in-Conversion refers to cotton grown using the same methods as organic cotton. However, this cotton has not yet completed the approximately three-year transition required for the soil to regenerate – a period necessary before official organic certification can be obtained.



This cotton cannot obtain organic certification and is internationally labeled as "Cotton-in-Conversion" (which can be defined as cotton in transition to organic) or simply "Cotton," rather than "Organic Cotton." As a result, it is typically traded at the same price level as conventional cotton. This situation creates a challenge for farmers, as they practice organic farming methods, but can only sell their cotton at conventional cotton prices, leading to income instability. This is one of the factors hindering the wider adoption of organic cotton.

To address this global issue, CFCL has partnered with STYLEM TAKISADA-OSAKA CO., LTD. (hereinafter, STYLEM) to promote the organic transition of farmland currently used for conventional cotton cultivation. STYLEM provides organic cotton seeds free of charge to farmers in specific regions of India and dispatches experts to share knowledge on cultivation methods. Additionally, STYLEM purchases Cotton-in-Conversion at price levels equivalent to organic cotton, supporting farmers in their transition to organic cultivation. As well as actively incorporating Cotton-in-Conversion into its products, CFCL has also begun exploring new initiatives aimed at providing more direct support to organic cotton farmers.
The material in question passed through three separate domestic textile trading companies, from cotton procurement to the development of CFCL’s original yarn. The insufficient information management and communication that led to the incorrect labeling occurred through the blending process of recycled polyester yarn and Cotton-in-Conversion yarn, and the subsequent process of converting it into yarn for knit manufacturing. Additionally, CFCL did not have a sufficient process for verifying material certification credentials before the start of mass production.
There are no issues with the quality or wearability of the garment, however upon customer request, we will accept returns of the affected products. ​​If you wish to make a return, please confirm the details of your item and bring it to a CFCL directly operated store, or apply through the link below. After confirming the item, we will promptly issue a refund.

Return Request Form

CFCL takes this situation very seriously, and will work to improve communication with our business partners, ensure timely acquisition of certification, and enhance our product development process. We are committed to improving supply chain traceability and preventing future occurrences. We kindly ask for your understanding and continued support.


【Target products】
Style: CF008KC044
Product Name: TC STRATUM STAND-UP COLLAR BOMBER JACKET
Color: PINK BEIGE MULTI, BLACK MULTI, BLACK



Style: CF008KN133
Product Name: TC GARTER SHORT SLEEVE TEE SHIRT
Color: WHITE MULTI, BLACK MULTI




【Mislabeling】
Incorrect
Cotton 67% (Organic cotton)

Correct
Cotton 67% (Cotton in Conversion)


【Direct Stores】
List of CFCL Direct Stores


【Contact Information】
CFCL Customer Support
Business Hours: Monday to Friday, 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM (excluding Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays)