NWG // SUSTAINABILITY REPORT
Processes to remediate negative impacts and channels to raise concerns Independent audits, or amfori audits, are conducted by professional auditors accredited by SAAS( Social Accountability Accreditation Services). An amfori audit provides a summary grade from A to F, evaluating both actual working conditions and the presence of management systems to ensure systematic compliance. Thirteen areas corresponding to the Code of Conduct are assessed. The most common grade is " C ", indicating an acceptable standard with minor deviations that do not compromise worker health and safety. Common findings include overtime work and insufficient documentation. After the audit, suppliers must submit an corrective action plan for each finding.
During an audit, mechanisms for reporting grievances are also reviewed. Workers in the value chain can report directly to amfori anonymously or use the complaint function of the International Accord. Additionally, workers can report issues directly to New Wave Group through the company’ s whistleblowing system, details of which are available on the company’ s website.
A cornerstone of the company’ s approach is systematic work under the amfori BSCI framework, involving implementation, monitoring, and follow-up of the Code of Conduct through both internal and third-party audits. Many challenges and opportunities require collaboration beyond the level of individual companies. Participation in industry forums and networks allows the company to share knowledge, address structural issues, and develop solutions. Key initiatives and networks include amfori BSCI and the International Accord.
Targets relating to workers in the value chain New Wave Group’ s target is for all factories in high-risk countries( as defined by amfori BSCI) to undergo independent third-party audits with good grades, preferably amfori BSCI A, B or SA8000. While the purchasing offices are close to achieving this target, challenges remain for purchases made outside the offices. Such purchases are often smaller and non-recurring. The COVID-19 pandemic also presented challenges, including postponed or canceled audits.
Additional targets, such as achieving living wages and reducing overtime, are under discussion.
Actions on handling impacts, risks and opportunities New Wave Group’ s purchasing offices play a key role in promoting social responsibility within the supply chain. Local presence enables the company to visit factories more easily and support suppliers in addressing social and environmental challenges. The company employs dedicated CSR staff who focus on these efforts full-time.
2024 2023 2022 2021 2020 Comments
Third-party audited factories in risk countries
% of total number of factories in risk countries
% of purchasing volume from factories in risk countries
89 % 90 % 88 % 83 % 81 %
92 % 95 % 96 % 93 % 80 %
% of purchasing volume |
|
|
|
|
|
from purchasing offices |
99 % |
99 % |
98 % |
98 % |
85 % |
Risk countries according to amfori BSCI’ s definition
22 %( 21 %)
6 %( 6 %)
1 %( 2 %)
71 %( 70 %)
Grades from independent third-party audits. Previous year in parentheses.
Improvements needed( BSCI C) Good result( BSCI A + B, SA8000) Accepted through SMETA, Sedex Members Ethical Trade Audit Accepted through WRAP, Worldwide Responsible Accredited Production
ANNUAL REPORT // 079