WRAP was launched in January 2000 as an independent, 501(c)(6), nonprofit education and training organization set to demonstrate the apparel industry’s commitment to responsible business practices, and to ensure that apparel is produced under lawful, humane and ethical conditions. The program has continued to reach out to many interested constituencies outside the apparel manufacturing community, including retailers, human rights advocates, public interest organizations, development agencies, and the licensing community.

The WRAP Production Principles are based on the “rule of law” within each country and include the spirit or language of relevant International Labor Organization conventions. The first nine principles cover child labor, health and safety, harassment and abuse, discrimination, hours of work, compensation and benefits and forced labor. A principle on Environment was added to demonstrate the industry’s commitment to environmentally responsible business practices. Customs Compliance and Security were added to ensure the shipment of goods complied with applicable customs laws, and to ensure that no non-manifested cargo (drugs, bombs, etc.) was transported along with finished product.