Monitoring and verification
We have a dedicated team of auditors, which monitors suppliers’ performance against our Standards. We also value independent monitoring by third parties because it helps us to improve how we work and adds credibility to our programme. So in 1999 we joined the Fair Labor Association (FLA) in the United States, which is a non-profit organisation dedicated to improving working conditions in factories around the world. By working cooperatively with companies, NGOs and universities, the FLA developed a workplace code of conduct based on International Labour Organization standards, and appoints accredited inspectors to conduct unannounced factory visits and check if suppliers are meeting the standards.