Our Internal Purchasing Policy
We are committed to implementing responsible purchasing practices in our value chain. Responsible purchasing enables positive change at the supplier level, and ignites ongoing benefits for every step of the supply chain. It requires a trusting, direct and honest relationship where both parties are able to negotiate and share risks equally, and a purchaser who is committed to supporting human rights within the supply base. In contrast, conventional purchasing practices are characterized by aggressive price negotiation, inaccurate forecasting, late orders, short lead times and last-minute changes. This places suppliers and workers’ minimal requirements under serious pressure, impacting negatively on all concerned.
01
Partnering and sourcing from suppliers who share our commitment to sustainability as detailed in our Code of Conduct (COC)
02
Ensuring the technical details related to product specification and associated forecasting is accurate
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We will endeavour to minimise changes to specifications
04
Any amendments will result in the target delivery being changed
05
Lead-in times will be sufficient so as not to result in excessive working hours or sub-contracting in order to hit delivery targets
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We will pay an equitable price for garments and always pay invoices as per agreed payment terms
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For cancelled orders, we will ensure a realistic and just timeframe that does not impact the supplier’s business
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We welcome feedback from suppliers when our sourcing puts excessive pressure on the requirements (as set out in the COC)
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For all employees and domestic operations, we will adhere to all points set out in our COC
10
We will engage annually with all stakeholders to assess the impacts of the purchasing practices and to ascertain where improvements can be made