Maintaining strong ethical and legal standards is a central responsibility throughout the organization and its worldwide manufacturing network. The commitment extends across every stage of production, with particular attention given to fair employment, workplace safety, human dignity, and transparent business practices. Regular disclosures are prepared to demonstrate continued efforts to prevent forced labor, child labor, human trafficking, and other forms of workplace exploitation. These reports are developed with consideration for applicable requirements in the United States and Canada, helping ensure that responsible sourcing remains an active and measurable part of the broader business strategy.
As a global company producing premium products across categories such as clothing, footwear, accessories, and home goods, the organization recognizes that responsible growth depends on more than product quality alone. Respect for workers and communities forms an important part of its operating philosophy. Supporting women’s economic advancement is also an important objective, influencing both the organization’s creative direction and the activities of its charitable programs. This broader purpose encourages business practices that seek to create positive social value while maintaining high standards of craftsmanship and commercial performance.
A comprehensive supply chain management system is used to identify potential risks and promote responsible manufacturing practices. Business partners are expected to operate facilities that respect fundamental labor rights and maintain suitable working conditions. A formal supplier code establishes expectations that apply throughout the manufacturing relationship. Its requirements address subjects such as appropriate compensation, reasonable working schedules, workplace safety, freedom from discrimination and harassment, environmental responsibility, and the absolute prohibition of forced and underage labor. These expectations are informed by widely recognized international labor principles and are intended to create consistent standards across different regions and production environments.
Transparency is reinforced through accessible reporting mechanisms. Employees, suppliers, contractors, and other relevant parties are encouraged to raise concerns when they encounter conduct that may conflict with established ethical requirements. Reporting channels are designed to support confidentiality and, where appropriate, anonymity. Individuals who raise concerns honestly and responsibly are protected from retaliation. Every credible allegation is reviewed carefully so that potential violations can be investigated and addressed through appropriate corrective measures. This approach helps create an environment in which concerns can be communicated without unnecessary fear or pressure.
Supplier evaluation begins before a commercial relationship is formally established. Prospective manufacturing partners are reviewed according to factors that may include labor conditions, operational practices, geographic considerations, and other potential risks. Additional independent expertise may be used when specialized due diligence is appropriate. Once a supplier is approved, the relationship does not end with the initial assessment. Partners are expected to acknowledge and follow the applicable code of conduct and provide information that supports continued oversight.
Supply chain traceability is another important element of this framework. Information concerning manufacturing locations, production activities, and the origins of relevant raw materials is collected and reviewed to improve visibility beyond the immediate supplier. Understanding where goods are produced and where materials originate makes it easier to identify potential weaknesses and respond to emerging concerns. Greater visibility also supports more informed sourcing decisions and encourages suppliers to maintain responsible practices throughout their own networks.
Independent assessments provide an additional layer of accountability. New suppliers may be required to complete evaluations before purchasing arrangements are finalized, while established partners can undergo periodic reviews to confirm that expected standards remain in place. These assessments may examine working environments, employment documentation, operational procedures, and other relevant areas of compliance. Even when no confirmed cases of forced or child labor have been identified within the known production network, continued monitoring remains essential because supply chain conditions can change over time.
Education and training support the effectiveness of these policies. Employees receive recurring instruction concerning ethical sourcing requirements, workplace standards, and the responsibilities associated with the supplier code. Teams involved in procurement and sourcing receive additional guidance on traceability, risk identification, and potential vulnerabilities within international production networks. Suppliers are also provided with relevant information intended to strengthen their understanding of labor protections and applicable anti-exploitation requirements.
The organization continually evaluates whether its existing controls remain effective as regulations, business conditions, and supply chain structures evolve. Policies and procedures may therefore be refined when new risks are identified or when stronger approaches become available. Periodic certifications and formal reporting help document the status of compliance efforts and provide a clearer picture of responsible sourcing activities.
Through supplier screening, contractual expectations, independent assessments, worker protections, training, traceability, and confidential reporting channels, ethical considerations become an ongoing part of supply chain management rather than a one-time requirement. The objective is to build lasting manufacturing relationships based on accountability, respect, transparency, and shared responsibility while supporting a production environment in which human rights and responsible business conduct remain essential priorities.