Investigation Reveals Low Wages for Cambodian Workers Making Premier League Football Shirts
A recent investigation by BBC Sport has revealed that workers in Cambodia are paid less than £1 an hour to produce official football shirts for prominent clubs such as Arsenal, Celtic, and Liverpool. The report traced the production of these shirts to two factories, Bowker Garment Factory and Trax Apparel, where working conditions have been described as harsh.
Employees at these factories reported working on up to 700 items daily, struggling to make ends meet with basic monthly salaries ranging from $210 to $220. Although these wages comply with local laws, many workers expressed that their earnings are insufficient to cover living expenses. The Clean Clothes Campaign commented on the findings, indicating that they reflect broader issues faced by garment workers globally.
Despite the low wages, the retail prices of these shirts have significantly increased over the years, with some selling for as much as £120. Fans have voiced frustration over the rising costs, leading some to seek cheaper counterfeit alternatives. The investigation highlights the disparity between the profits generated from shirt sales and the minimal compensation received by the workers who produce them.
