For the first time, an Italian fashion company and its managers have been directly implicated in an investigation for alleged labour exploitation. Tod’s and three of its managers are under investigation for labour exploitation. In other words, the Milan Prosecutor’s Office is no longer merely requesting judicial administration, but is alleging intent. It argues that Tod’s was not unaware of what was happening, but fully cognisant — and therefore complicit in the exploitation occurring in subcontractors’ workshops, having consistently ignored warnings flagged in audit reports. Tod’s finds some relief, however, in the Supreme Court, which yesterday rejected the requests and appeal lodged by Prosecutor Paolo Storari, once again “prodded” by Diego Della Valle (who is not under investigation).
Prosecutors investigate Tod’s and three of its managers
The Milan Prosecutor’s Office has placed Tod’s and three of its managers under investigation. Not only that: it has also requested a six-month ban on advertising products manufactured by suppliers involved in the inquiry. Prosecutors speak of Tod’s “wilful blindness” to the “exploitation of labour” involving 53 Chinese workers identified in six suppliers inspected by the Carabinieri between 15 October 2024 and 27 May 2025 across Milan, Vigevano and Macerata. Tod’s is accused of having ignored the critical issues and violations identified in audit reports: 15 suppliers in 2023, 24 in 2024 and 28 in 2025 (source: Corriere della Sera). The decision now lies with the preliminary investigations judge in Milan on 3 December.
Tod’s responds
“Tod’s notes that the Supreme Court yesterday rejected the requests and the appeal by Dr Paolo Storari”, reads a statement issued this morning by the Marche-based company. “With regard to the new allegations concerning the same matter, the company is now reviewing — with the same calm approach — the further material produced, with worrying timing, by Dr Storari”. Consequently, the request for judicial administration will be assessed for territorial jurisdiction by the Court of Ancona.
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