In recent years some major US companies, have experienced numerous protests against conditions in factories abroad, where their products an manufactured in sweatshop conditions. Work upto 12 hours a day, seven days a week without overtime. Paid only 59 per cent of US minimum wage.- At the time of hiring, pregnancy test is compulsory. Workplace is hot, dirty and dangerous. Trade union activity is forbidden.
Minimum wages are un-enforced.
Maternity benefits are unknown. Continuous reports by NGOs, Human Rights Groups and media in the USA and West Europe have created tremendous consumer concerns on sweatshop practices. Company or corporation's public image is a precious asset. Such public image greatly determines a decision whether the public will buy its goods. Large retailers in the States and Europe now realise that the sale of a T-shirt, a soccer ball, even a cup of coffee is a package, that must include an assurance to the consumers that these products are not based on workers' exploitation.