The lifestyle store supports campaign to stamp out child labour


Dubai, UAE, June 23, 2003 – Regular customers to THE One, the region’s leading lifestyle store, will be aware of its ability for sourcing high-quality, originally designed carpets to suit all rooms in the home. In addition to this, THE One also operates a strict ‘code of conduct’ for its range of wool and cotton rugs which bear an official tag from the internationally-recognised RUGMARK foundation.
 
RUGMARK ensures that each rug bearing its label has been woven without the use of child labour as well as being produced in factories where the RUGMARK Foundation’s strict guidelines are adhered to.
 
“Our RUGMARK rugs are bought from India, directly from manufacturers who have committed themselves to the fact that their carpets have not been produced by children under the age of 14,” commented Thomas Lundgren, Founder of THE One.  “In addition to that peace of mind, 1% of the purchase price goes directly to UNICEF through RUGMARK to build schools and healthcare facilities for impoverished families and their children who have been taken out of the weaving industry.”
 
A further 0.25% of the rug’s cost is donated by the manufacturer which aids impoverished weaving communities and pays for inspectors to spot-check factories and check the safety of looms and working conditions of weavers.
 
RUGMARK was initiated in India in 1994 in an attempt to stamp out illegal practices in the country’s huge carpet-weaving and export industry.  Since then its successful implementation has resulted in RUGMARK Foundations being set up in both Nepal and Pakistan.
 
At present THE One is the only carpet retailer in the UAE registered with the international RUGMARK foundation. 
 
-Ends-
 
About THE One:
With the first store opening in 1996, THE One is a unique and exciting approach to furniture retailing in the Middle East. With a combination of an innovative approach to logistics and supply chain management and a contemporary approach to style and showroom design, THE One’s varied product range is designed to complement a wide range of customers’ choices and budgets. THE One currently operates seven outlets in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Riyadh and Kuwait.
 
THE One Contact:                                            Press Contact:
Jane Anderson                                                  Maryam Farzaneh / Kelly Home
Operations Manager                                         Gambate! Communications Consultants
Tel: +971 4 342 2499                                       Tel: +971 4 391 6424
Fax: +971 4 342 2359                                      Fax: +971 4 391 6634
Email: jane@theoneme.com                               Email: maryam@gambate.biz

© Press Release 2003