British fashion retailer New Look has taken decisive measures to safeguard the rights of workers who play an essential role in its supply chain.
In collaboration with the International Transport Workers Union (ITF), New Look is set to implement thorough human rights due diligence across its transport supply chain operations.
New Look, which operates 391 stores in the UK and Ireland, has formalised a partnership with the ITF to protect the rights of transport workers. This collaboration, under a newly signed memorandum of understanding (MoU), ensures human and labour rights are upheld, covering both direct and subcontracted operations. This initiative aims to enhance the safety and resilience of the transport supply chain.
The MoU outlines New Look’s dedication to human rights across its supply chain. Sue Fairley, the senior head of ESG, quality, and sourcing at New Look, highlighted the company’s drive to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking.
New Look’s strategy involves keen awareness of vulnerable workers, ensuring that their rights remain a priority. This proactive stance signifies an ongoing commitment to ethical operations within New Look’s logistics and transport operations.
Transport workers are indispensable in the delivery of goods produced internationally to UK high streets. According to ITF’s General Secretary, Stephen Cotton, respecting their rights is crucial.
The reliance on sea, road, and limited air transport by New Look underscores the vital role these workers play in the global economy.
The careful handling of logistics not only ensures timely delivery but also the ethical treatment of workers who facilitate these operations.
New Look commits to supporting the organisation and training of transport workers through a structured framework with ITF-affiliated unions. Joint training initiatives will be implemented to educate both New Look employees and suppliers.
This strategic development fosters a more informed workforce while supporting the freedom of association for workers within the supply chain.
Sourcing from 19 countries worldwide, New Look leverages various modes of transport to distribute products to the UK and Ireland.
The collaboration with ITF aims to fortify these chains, optimising both efficiency and ethical standards.
Such a comprehensive approach reflects New Look’s dedication to maintaining robust, fair, and sustainable supply chains.
To enforce ethical supply chain practices, New Look aligns its policies with international labour standards, essential for long-term business success.
The company’s methodology includes due diligence and remediation processes, which are coordinated through collective bargaining agreements with ITF-affiliated trade unions.
This strategic alignment helps assure that ethical practices are integral to their business operations.
As New Look continues its collaboration with the ITF, the focus remains on ethical logistics operations that respect workers’ rights.
The future holds promising advancements in ensuring the sustainable and fair treatment of transport workers within New Look’s supply chain.
New Look’s approach to safeguarding worker rights within its supply chain is a testament to its dedication to sustainable and ethical business practices.
Through strategic partnerships and detailed due diligence processes, New Look ensures its operations align with international human rights standards.
