Historically, reusable period underwear was standard rated for VAT, creating a disparity in the taxation of menstrual health products. Victoria McKenzie-Gould, the corporate affairs director at Marks & Spencer (M&S), expressed immense satisfaction with this decision. "We've levelled the playing field across period products by making period pants VAT free," she stated.

This development comes after the 2021 removal of the 'Tampon Tax', which eliminated VAT on tampons, pads, and menstrual cups. However, period pants remained an exception due to their classification as garments. Customers had paid over £1.8 million in VAT on period pants, prompting the retailer to partner with WUKA for the 'Pants To The Tax' campaign, McKenzie-Gould said on the M&S website.

The campaign witnessed widespread support from various sectors, including major retailers, independent brands, cross-party MPs, celebrities, and charities like Wellbeing of Women and Bloody Good Period.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (KD)