Forced labour: British companies will have to be transparent

By

Matthieu Guinebault

Published
Aug 8, 2015

As of October, British companies will have to demonstrate their commitment against forced labour within their supply chain. 

The measure will involve all companies that operate in Great Britain and generate revenues there in excess of £36 million. The decision comes within the framework of the Modern Slavery Act, which compels companies to get involved against forced labour every year, also engaging farmers, manufacturers and distributors.

"With 11% of leading British companies indicating that it's probable modern slavery is already playing a role in their supply chain, this is clearly a problem that involves all of us", pointed out David Noble, director of the Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply.

The measure is clearly aimed at the UK's main retailers, such as Primark or Marks & Spencer, but it's also targeted towards mass market grocery retailers, as well as companies operating in new technologies.