Apple Consultant Refutes Claims From Worker Treatment Story

Could the Apple and Foxconn tale have another side to it?

Last week the New York Times ran a story that shone a spotlight on Apple and Foxconn's use of labor in the production of the latest mobile devices. It sourced many unnamed workers, including ones from Apple and BSR, a business responsibility firm.

BSR recently posted a blog that refutes the comments made by an anonymous BSR consultant.

"This article shines a light on important supply chain issues that are a crucial part of the global economy—one of the sustainability challenges BSR has worked on with business and other stakeholders for 20 years. Unfortunately, the article mistakenly attributes several quotes to an unnamed 'BSR consultant,' presenting a false impression that those views should be associated with BSR," wrote Aron Cramer, president and CEO of BSR. "While the story focuses on Apple, the question of conditions in global supply chains is of immense importance to all companies, in all sectors. There is no doubt that, while more and more companies are committed to ensuring good working conditions in their supply chains, additional steps should be taken."

Cramer also summarized some of the points from the NYT article, notably saying that it's untrue that "Apple has consistently disregarded advice that BSR has provided about problems related to working conditions in its supply chain."

Apple CEO Tim Cook also refuted the NYT's report in an email sent to company employees.

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