Supplier audits:
We carry out environmental and ethical audits on our main suppliers. Paper is by far the largest raw material for the Group. When we select paper suppliers we take account of their sourcing and production processes. In the selection of print suppliers we also consider environmental aspects, especially the processing of waste materials. We hold regular contract reviews to ensure that appointed printers have procedures in place to minimise waste at all stages of the production process.
Any potential new supplier is required to complete a pre-qualification audit during the selection process. We hold regular contract reviews to ensure that appointed printers have procedures in place to minimise waste at all stages of the production process.
Supplier payment policy:
The Group does not follow an external code on payment practice, but it is our policy to pay all suppliers when their invoices become contractually due for payment. At 30 September 2010, the Group as a whole had 42 (2009: 42) days of purchases outstanding. The Company had no trade creditors at 30 September 2010.
Ethics and human rights:
Future supports the standards set out in the UN Global Compact on the Responsibilities of Business, and endorses the principle that no underage, forced, or prison labour should be employed; that no-one is denied a job because of gender, age, sexual orientation, ethnic origin, religion, affiliation or association, and that factories comply with laws protecting the environment. Our supplier audits include an ethical questionnaire. We work co-operatively with licensees and we do not participate in or support exploitative labour or other arrangements in any country.
