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Sustainability

Suppliers Code of Conduct

The rules of conduct our suppliers commit to regarding human rights, working conditions, ethics and the environment.

Our basic principles

At Kessels B.V. we strive for products made with respect for people and the environment. We expect our suppliers to adhere to the following basic principles.

01

Human rights and working conditions

  • No forced labour or child labour: we do not tolerate any form of forced labour or child labour. Nor do we accept deposits or the confiscation of identity documents.
  • Health and safety: workers are entitled to a safe and healthy working environment that complies with local legislation.
  • Fair pay: workers are paid at least the statutory minimum wage. Together we are working towards workers ultimately earning a living wage.
  • Freedom: workers are free to associate (freedom of association) and to bargain collectively without fear of reprisals.
  • Working hours: Kessels B.V. expects its suppliers to comply with the law and the ILO, with voluntary overtime and correct payment, rest days and breaks.
  • Discrimination: equal opportunities and equal pay for every worker, regardless of gender, origin or disability. Kessels B.V. does not tolerate harassment or violence.
  • Complaints mechanism: every supplier has an accessible complaints mechanism for workers.
02

Ethical business conduct

  • Integrity: we reject corruption, bribery and any form of unfair trading practice.
  • Transparency: suppliers are transparent about their production process and allow us (or our representatives) to inspect working conditions. Unannounced audits may also form part of this.
03

Environment

  • Responsible production: suppliers minimise negative environmental impact, in particular through responsible water use and by avoiding harmful chemicals in the textile dyeing process.
  • Waste management: waste streams are processed responsibly in accordance with local environmental legislation.
04

Compliance

  • Acceptance: by doing business with Kessels B.V., the supplier declares that it endorses and complies with this code of conduct.
  • Improvement: where we identify shortcomings, we expect the supplier to be willing to draw up and implement an improvement plan.