Johan Sundström has contributed to the drawing up of a code of conduct for Ejendals.

A code for long-term co-operation

Ejendals enjoys excellent,long-term relations with its partners. The company takes full responsibility for its actions,in Europe as well as the rest of the world. “But we also take responsibility for the thousands of people who are engaged in the manufacture of our products.This is essential if we are to continue being competitive in the future,” says Johan Sundström,chief buyer at Ejendals.

These views are set out in Ejendals’social code of conduct. It is a non-negotiable requirement which producers must adhere to without exception. “We make sure that nobody who works with our products is denied their fundamental human rights or suffers physical or psychological injury,” says Johan Sundström. There are no children producing Ejendals products and there is total compliance with article 32 of the United Nations' Convention on the Rights of the Child.

Faith in co-operation

If the company discovers instances of noncompliance with the code, a plan is drawn up to deal with the discrepancies. In cases of repeated infringements, the co-operation is terminated and any remaining orders cancelled. Johan Sundström points out that Ejendals believe in co-operating with its partners and is willing to work together with its producers to find realistic solutions in each individual case. Which is why the organisation is prepared to take into consideration cultural differences and other factors that may differ from one country to another.

Independent party

“But we do not make any compromises when it comes to the fundamental requirements for safety and human rights. Our values must be impressed on operations regardless of where the products are manufactured.” Ejendals reserves the right to visit the factories producing its products whenever it chooses. The same applies to the right to allow an independent third party appointed by the company to conduct factory inspections.

Improved environment

The environment, too, has high priority and Ejendals expects its suppliers to take responsibility for this as well. “In accordance with our policy concerning the use of chemicals, as well as black and grey lists, we do not permit the use of dangerous chemical substances in our products. This has the added benefit of contributing to a good working environment,” says Johan Sundström.