CODE OF CONDUCT FOR BUSINESS PARTNERS

We believe that strong partnerships are built on shared values, mutual respect and a commitment to ethical and sustainable business practices.

This Code of Conduct outlines the standards and expectations that we encourage all our Business Partners to abide by. It is also aligned with the principles of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly:

By working together, we can promote fair working conditions, protect human rights, ensure workplace safety and minimize our environmental impact – helping to build a more responsible and sustainable future for all.

EMPLOYMENT PRACTICES AND WORKING CONDITIONS

FAIR EMPLOYMENT AND PREVENTION OF FORCED LABOR

  • Employment should always be freely chosen and no individual should be subjected to forced labor, slavery or human trafficking.
  • Employees should receive clear and understandable employment terms.
  • Migrant and vulnerable workers should be treated fairly and receive equal pay and opportunities.

WAGES AND BENEFITS

  • Compensation should meet or exceed legal minimum wage requirements, ensuring a decent standard of living.
  • Wages should be paid regularly and in full, without unlawful deductions.
  • Equal pay should be provided for equal work, regardless of gender or other personal characteristics.

CHILD LABOR AND YOUNG WORKERS

  • Employment of children under the age of 15 (or higher, if required by law) should not occur.
  • Young workers (under 18) should not be engaged in hazardous work or night shifts.
  • Their right to education should always be safeguarded.

FREEDOM OF ASSOCIATION AND NON-DISCRIMINATION

  • Employees should have the freedom to join unions and engage in collective bargaining without fear of retaliation.
  • Discrimination in any form – based on gender, age, race, religion, disability, sexual orientation or political beliefs – should not occur.
  • A respectful workplace free from harassment, abuse and violence should always be maintained.

WORKPLACE HEALTH AND SAFETY

  • A safe and healthy work environment should be provided to prevent accidents and health risks.
  • Employees should receive regular safety training and have access to first-aid kits and protective equipment.
  • Special care and consideration should be given to pregnant employees and young workers.

ENVIRONMENTAL RESPONSIBILITY AND CLIMATE ACTION

We recognize that protecting our planet is a shared responsibility and we encourage our business partners to:

  • Comply with environmental laws and adopt sustainable practices that minimize pollution waste and resource consumption.
  • Take proactive steps to reduce energy and water consumption and integrate renewable energy solutions whenever possible.
  • Improve recycling and waste management practices, supporting a circular economy.
  • Monitor and reduce carbon emissions, contributing to global climate goals.

PARTNERSHIP, TRANSPARENCY AND CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT

  • We value transparency and encourage open communication regarding ethical and sustainable business practices.
  • We believe in long-term partnerships based on integrity, mutual respect and a shared commitment to responsible growth.
  • We encourage our business partners to extend these values throughout their supply chains, ensuring a positive impact at all levels.
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