An ethical dilemma behind a million dollar bag
I’m just learning of Louis Vuitton making headlines last year by unveiling their most expensive handbag ever – a $1 million crocodile leather Speedy bag first revealed at Fashion Week in June 2023. At first glance, the exorbitant price tag seems the most shocking aspect. But look closer, and there’s an even bigger issue – the glaring ethical conflict is a contradiction between LV’s stated values and this product.
LV's Claimed Priorities
LV claims “Our priorities are to preserve resources and the climate, respect animal welfare…” Yet this ultra-exclusive bag made from exotic crocodile leather raises serious questions about those proclaimed priorities. This is a prime example of an ethical dilemma.
The Issue with Exotic Leather
I have no issue with leather goods when the leather is a byproduct of animals raised for meat. But it’s difficult to comprehend harming endangered species like crocodiles solely for their skins. LV’s bag uses crocodilian leather deemed so “exotic” that it makes up only 1% of the world’s leather supply.
There’s an inherent contradiction in sourcing leather from threatened animals classified as “exotic” while claiming to respect animal welfare. How can breeding crocodiles to order, solely to kill them for skins, align with any reasonable welfare standards? This can be an indication of prioritises and lip service resulting in an ethical dilemma and public backlash.
Prioritising Ultra-Luxury Over Ethics
You don't have to have a million dollar dollar bag to have an ethical dilemma to review your current practices.
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A Missed Opportunity
Credibility Lost
Conscientious consumers will think twice about brands whose products so blatantly contradict their ethical statements. However, the real issue may be how much attention is paid to the invitation-only production process. LV created a million-dollar bag, but lost something priceless – credibility.
Align Your Practices With Your Principles
Does your company struggle with ethical conflicts like this? This LV example shows that inconsistencies between corporate policies and actual practices can severely undermine brand trust and credibility.
A comprehensive policy audit from CAS Ltd can identify gaps between your stated values and real-world operations. With the framework of HouseRules, we will work closely to bring policies, procedures and corporate culture into full alignment therefore avoiding public ethical dilemmas.
Don’t let your company’s principles become empty marketing hacks – ensure you uphold your values across the entire business. Visit the Services page to learn how to get the right policy audit for your business to strengthen ethical integrity.
Want to talk more about how we can work together to elevate your company through the implementation of your HouseRules? Be sure to connect and secure your complimentary Sip & Chat session.
I’m Cas Johnson, The Ethical Strategist working with business leaders who envision a business of interdependency.
