As stated in the Workplace Standards, we expect our suppliers to deliver continuous compliance improvements in their operations. This means that business partners must internalise compliance and take ownership of their activities that ensure long-term, consistent compliance execution. To internalise the Standards means developing effective systems to manage employment and HSE issues. To maintain these systems management must be engaged and the necessary resources committed.

The Guidelines on Sustainable Compliance were designed to be a reference point for suppliers establishing an internal compliance programme. They were developed in 2004 and introduced to strategic suppliers in mid 2005. The Guidelines define specific performance benchmarks, spread over timelines up to three years that would inform the SEA Key Performance Indicator. In 2006, the Guidelines were primarily applied to core footwear and apparel suppliers who are covered by the Group¡¯s World Class Supply Chain programme.

In 2007, the Guidelines were integrated in other monitoring tools such as the strategic compliance planning tool. The strategic compliance planning tool is increasingly used in the relationship between the Group¡¯s brands, business entities and the supply chain to track, assess and report their respective performance in managing supply chain compliance. By the end of 2007 there were more than 20 plans implemented with business units.

To download the Guidelines on Sustainable Compliance, please click here.