Pentland launches ethical trade app to combat modern slavery

London-based brand group Pentland has launched an ethical trade all to help people throughout its supply chain to spot potential ethical trade issues.

Called ‘Everyone’s Business’, the app has been designed to "engage and educate all employees in responsible labour sourcing". Its aim is to help all factory-facing employees maintain labour standards and human rights across the supply chain.

Created in partnership with sustainability and corporate responsibility consultancy Carnstone Partners, the app educates users on the risks of modern slavery and facilitates the reporting of any issues or potential issues identified.

The app captures users’ observations and relays any concerns to a dedicated in-house corporate responsibility team. It can be used by merchandisers, quality managers and buyers, as well as employees, that frequently visit suppliers. The app can be used in any country where Pentland’s brands have suppliers.

Sara Brennan, Head of Corporate Responsibility at Pentland Brands, said:  “Whilst there are other freely available apps that provide information on supply chain ethical trade issues, what’s unique about Everyone’s Business is that it facilitates a two-way conversation between us and our supply chains.

“We’re really proud to be helping our colleagues to understand, identify and report ethical trade issues as they arise. It allows our colleagues to speak up if they have concerns, in a consistent way that’s recordable and transparent. Ultimately, it helps us continue to operate to high labour and human rights standards. As a business, we believe in doing the right thing, not the easy thing, and this app helps us to make better, more informed ethical decisions.”

William Pickett, Partner, Carnstone Partners, added: “Everyone’s Business is an important tool because it offers a way to involve all factory-facing employees on the responsible labour sourcing agenda. Information gathered from these many visits can be used by the ethical trade teams to make informed decisions when engaging with suppliers and managing supplier risks. We’re delighted to be working with Pentland Brands and other leading retailers who have helped lead and shape this initiative.”

Pentland Brands owns Speedo, Berghaus, Canterbury of New Zealand, Endura, Boxfresh, ellesse, SeaVees, Red or Dead and Mitre. It is also the global licensee for Karen Millen footwear and Kickers in the UK and has a joint venture partnership for Lacoste footwear.