Ethics matter

DONALD TRUMP'S tenancy in the White House and his commitment to tariffs has upended the commercial world as we knew it. Uncertainty is here. The future is much less predictable. Costs in supply chains will increase, markets outside the US may be flooded with product now too expensive to sell there, investment is likely to decline, and innovation may drop off as business hold their breath waiting to see what happens next. 

In this complex and challenging environment, it is easy to lose focus on ethics. Operating responsible and environmentally sustainable business practices can seem like a cost that can be cut but now, more than ever, it is crucial. An ethical approach to business builds trust and reputation. It can also be a powerful motivator, fostering loyalty and commitment amongst employees. Ultimately it underpins long term relationships that generate a better financial performance. 

Businesses committed to ethical practices will promote fair labour practices. They will adhere to national and international laws and respect human rights. They will be aware of their environmental footprint, aiming to reduce it and tread lightly. Importantly, as a buyer, you can trust them not to cut important corners. 

Maintaining an ethical business

To make sure you work with ethical businesses you need to look beyond your immediate supplier. The whole supply chain matters. Do your supplier’s suppliers have ethically and environmentally sustainable business practices? How can you know?

Our advice is to seek third party certification. It’s why we have introduced a new requirement for all manufacturers of CHSA Accredited Product to have a SMETA (Sedex Members Ethical Trade Audit) Audit. In addition, if a distributor member purchases from a non-Accredited manufacturer, that manufacturer is also expected to be registered with Sedex and provide proof of their Sedex compliance. 

Supply chain data

Sedex is a global technology company that specialises in data, insights and professional services to empower supply chain sustainability. They offer supply chain due diligence and continuous improvement at scale, translating international principles into practical activities. The organisation has over 20 years’ expertise, its community comprising over 85,000 businesses and 104,000 supply chain sites of employment/work, across 180 countries and 35 sectors globally.

We were delighted when our members unanimously backed the commitment to Sedex at their recent Annual General Meetings. The minimum requirement we have set is a ‘2 Pillar SMETA Audit’, which covers labour standards and health and safetyat the factories manufacturing CHSA Accredited products. Compliance with labour laws, working conditions and the fair treatment of workers will be evaluated, and the workplace safety measures and occupational health standards will be assessed. The audit needs to be carried out by the end of 2025.

We have also just introduced commitment to ethical marketing, which is being signed by every member. By doing so they commit to adhering to four ethical principles:

1. All statements and claims are truthful.

2. Supporting evidence, such as data sheets, reports and certificates is available on request to substantiate all product and service claims.

3. All statements and claims are transparent. For example, it is clearly indicated if the claim applies to the product, the packaging or both.

4. All statements and claims are meaningful. For example, the term eco-friendly must be defined in relation to all aspects of the product and substantiated across the full lifecycle. 

The introduction of the SMETA Audit and our Ethical Marketing Commitment follow the integration of the Competition & Markets Authority’s Green Claims Code into ourrigorous Code of Practice, which is signed by every member. 

The combination of the Code of Practice and Accreditation Scheme membership means every member:

• Trades ethically and sustainably;

• Provides quality, fit for purpose products; and

• Makes sure what’s on the box is what’s in the box.

Lorcan Mekitarian is chair of the Cleaning & Hygiene Suppliers Association

For more information, visit www.CHSA.co.uk

@CHSACleaning