Hanes Brands intervened to secure the payment of severance funds for Haitian factory workers by requesting detailed severance information from the factory owner and providing necessary funds to avert the plant’s closure and potential worker hardship.

OpenSecrets data reveals that HanesBrands Inc contributed $297,307 in the current election cycle and spent $120,000 on lobbying, with a notable revolving door phenomenon where 2 out of 3 lobbyists in 2023 and all lobbyists in 2024 had previous government roles. This raises concerns about undue corporate influence and potential regulatory capture.

An investigation by the Workers Rights Council revealed that Hanesbrands (HBI) illegally blacklisted union leader employees after the closure of its Jasper factory in Honduras. The company allegedly denied rehiring opportunities to these worker leaders while offering positions to other former workers, highlighting discriminatory labor practices.

Hanesbrands has entered into a cooperation agreement with activist investor Barington Capital Group LP, agreeing to support board-nominated directors and appointing three new industry veterans. The move comes amid financial challenges and follows previous investor calls for changes in leadership, suggesting a shift toward enhanced corporate governance and accountability.

Hanes Brands concluded a three-and-a-half-month activist standoff by agreeing to add three new board members and entering a cooperation agreement with activist hedge fund Barington Capital. The changes are intended to address concerns over board composition and corporate governance, potentially leading to improved oversight and accountability.

Activist investor Barington Capital Group pressured Hanesbrands to reduce costs, cut $300 million in annual expenses, and restructure its debt profile by advocating for board refreshment and even considering a new CEO. Hanesbrands, while affirming its current growth strategy, resisted changes to its board.

Hanesbrands Inc reportedly spent $560,000 on federal lobbying activities in 2023, as documented by OpenSecrets. This spending is seen as an effort to influence policy in ways that may prioritize corporate interests over democratic accountability.

In August 2022, following the closure of its supplier factory GO Haiti, HanesBrands intervened to provide $330,000 in severance payments to over 800 garment workers, ensuring they received nearly three months of pay and upholding labor rights within its supply chain.

HanesBrands issued a comprehensive compliance statement under the California Transparency Act detailing its efforts to evaluate and address risks of forced labor, human trafficking, and slavery. The company describes rigorous internal and third‑party audits, supplier certifications, and continuous training for employees on supply chain management, reflecting robust measures to protect labor rights and maintain ethical sourcing standards.