Kering Looks to the Future with Sustainability InitiativesKering Looks to the Future with Sustainability Initiatives

When Sir Richard Branson speaks, other powerful business leaders listen – including Kering chairman and CEO François-Henri Pinault.

According to WWD, during a discussion held last week at Parsons The New School for Design, Pinault credited Branson with inspiring him to focus on sustainability in the company’s long-term business plans.

Of course, he also benefits from having another outspoken champion of the cause in his ear. Designer Stella McCartney’s eponymous label is owned by Kering, and has distinguished itself by creating luxury product with very little environmental impact.

WWD reports that Pinault referred to McCartney as one of Kering’s “best headhunters” in the space, adding, “She’s been doing sustainability in such a way that none of the other brands are even close to her.”