C&A Supplier Audit Consulting

About C&A

Founded in the Netherlands in 1841, C&A is a European fashion retailer with operations in markets including Belgium, Germany and the Netherlands. Its business has focused on providing accessible fashion. The original article described a workforce of more than 50,000 worldwide; this is historical background, not a current workforce total.

C&A sources products from suppliers across different countries. Its supply chain requirements aim to support responsible operations and compliance with applicable laws.

C&A Code of Conduct Requirements

C&A expects suppliers to operate responsibly, protect people and the environment, and maintain business integrity. These principles support lasting business relationships and responsible performance throughout the supply chain.

Topics Covered in the Original Article

The following list retains the topics in the original article and does not replace the full applicable Code. The 2023 C&A Code also addresses animal welfare and operational-level grievance mechanisms; review the complete document when preparing for assessment.

Legal Compliance

• Comply with National and Other Applicable Laws
• Respect Intellectual Property Rights

Labour Practices

• No Child Labour
• No Employment Discrimination
• No Forced Labour
• Respect Freedom of Association and Collective Bargaining
• No Harsh or Inhumane Treatment
• Safe and Hygienic Working Conditions
• Protection of Vulnerable Groups
• Regular Employment
• Living Wages and Timely Payment
• Working Hours Within Applicable Limits
• Compliance with Legal Requirements

Environmental Performance

• Compliance with Environmental Requirements
• Manage Environmental Performance
• Improve Energy and Water Efficiency
• Reduce Waste and Emissions
• Reduce Hazardous Chemicals in the Supply Chain

Anti-Corruption

• No Bribery or Corruption

C&A encourages suppliers to manage environmental performance proactively and improve beyond minimum compliance. Where appropriate, it works with suppliers to address gaps and improve performance.

Consequences of Non-Compliance

Non-compliance must be addressed through appropriate corrective action. The response depends on the nature and severity of the issue and the applicable contractual and programme requirements; it is inaccurate to state that every breach automatically results in immediate permanent termination.

Maintaining Compliance

C&A recognises that meeting the Code’s requirements can be challenging, while regarding compliance as essential to responsible and lasting business relationships.

Compliance with the Code is an important business requirement alongside product quality and delivery commitments.

C&A seeks to work with suppliers that are open, honest and committed to continual improvement, and supports their efforts to meet applicable requirements.

Management Responsibilities

Suppliers should maintain an effective management system for compliance and assign responsibility to a senior management representative.

Make workers aware of the Code and train managers and supervisors in how to implement it.

Conduct regular internal assessments.

Obtain the required C&A approval for production facilities, including owned and subcontracted sites, before starting production.

Unauthorised use of production facilities is prohibited.

Monitoring and Transparency

Allow C&A or its designated representatives to conduct announced or unannounced assessments under the applicable programme.

Cooperate transparently and provide access to workers, records, workplaces and relevant accommodation.

Allow private worker interviews and do not coach workers on their answers.

Maintain complete and accurate records. Do not manipulate information or misrepresent operations.

Grievances and Corrective Action

C&A’s Fairness Channel allows people and organisations to report concerns about unethical conduct or Code violations confidentially, including concerns in its supply chain.

When a breach is identified, the supplier should implement an improvement or remediation plan within the timeframe required for the issue, with support where applicable.

Serious issues, including child labour, forced or prison labour and bribery, require prompt escalation and appropriate remedial action under the applicable programme and contractual requirements.

Reference: C&A Code of Conduct for Suppliers and Business Partners (2023)