SLOW FASHION

Our products originate in lighter workwear and are made to last for a long time. These are clothes that must withstand heavy use, wear, and washing and are not intended as "use and discard" goods. We depend on the repurchase of the same products from our customers, and they will not buy a product of poor quality several times. We therefore swear by timeless classics with a selection of colours and sizes that will suit the most.

Our throwaway society is a major burden on the environment. The term "slow fashion" is, among other things, about purchasing less, more reusable products with a long lifespan – purchasing something that lasts. We consider our entire textile range to be "slow fashion". Workwear is not affected to a great extent by seasonal trends and the fashion picture in general, and our best-selling products were introduced to the market in the period 1996 to 1998. The few changes that have been made are a rolling transition to more sustainable raw materials.

EU TEXTILE STRATEGY

The European Commission's document "EU strategy for sustainable and circular textiles" describes the Union's approach to support a more sustainable and circular textile sector. The goal is to reshape how textile products are designed, manufactured, consumed and disposed of to reduce their environmental impact, support ethical trade and protect human rights throughout the supply chain. The strategy proposes a number of measures, including setting mandatory Ecodesign requirements, banning the destruction of unsold or returned goods, combating microplastic pollution, implementing product information requirements and digital product passports, as well as strengthening producer responsibility to encourage the reuse and recycling of textiles.

We aim to be a leading player in the implementation of this approach. This is one of the main reasons why we have initiated a number of measures, and we will follow up on an ongoing basis with further improvements in this area.

PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT

Responsible business practice is our focus already in the assessment of new potential suppliers. We have our own procedures for selecting suppliers where requirements related to sustainability, such as audits and certificates, are equated with other factors, such as quality, price and ability to cooperate. All our suppliers are required to sign a General Supplier Contract, which contains our Supplier Code of Conduct and a Restricted Substances List (RSL) for chemical use. In practice, we require them to follow OEKO-TEX® Standard 100's RSL for the majority of our products. In the future, we will also use RSL that is adapted to production under The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), Organic Content Standard (OCS) Recycled Claim Standard (RCS), Global Recycled Standard (GRS) and Bluesign® All potential and existing suppliers and products are subject to an ongoing risk assessment. Together with our partners, we work towards a common goal of developing working conditions, protecting human rights and helping to reduce pollution of the environment.

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is a collective term that encompasses environmental and ethical production standards. The textile industry is an industry that must make great demands on ethical production, since the products are often finished in countries that have not come as far as Norway in terms of working conditions and social rights. A description of our ethical production standard and information about our organization memberships, such as Amfori BSCI and UN Global Compact are easily accessible on our website.

When developing new products, we carry out a risk assessment of the products before they are made available to customers and consumers. As an importer/manufacturer, we are responsible for ensuring that the products comply with the regulations. Ongoing follow-up will be carried out in the event of incidents and changes. We have established systematic routines for handling complaints and non-conformities. If it is necessary to recall products, we can quickly and efficiently carry this out as we have good tracking options on all products produced in our name.

Before an item is ordered and imported, we review the various properties the item has. We check if there are any prohibited items, and that the manufacturer has approved documentation. We also carry out our own tests, assess the results and if improvements are required, we take the necessary measures in this context. If the product still does not meet the right requirements, we will reject the product.

All our products must be tested for chemicals in accordance with the chemical regulations for the products in question.

Cotton

Cotton is our most widely used raw material and it has major negative environmental and social impacts. We have decided to phase out conventional cotton and have a rolling transition towards organic cotton.

In our due diligence assessments, we have considered the Better Cotton Initiative (BCI) as an alternative but have decided that a transition to organic cotton or recycled cotton is considered more sustainable. The organic cotton we use is certified to ensure that it is produced under decent working conditions. Due to the high risk of forced labor and human rights violations in some countries or regions, we have a ban on the use of cotton from selected locations. In 2024, we were certified by GOTS and Textile Exchange. This is to secure an important place for us in the leading global value chain for certified cotton.

Polyester

Polyester is our second most used raw material, and it has a high degree of negative environmental and social impacts in the manufacturing process. The production of polyester and plastic products requires significant amounts of crude oil and energy.

All new polyester products from 2019 are made of recycled polyester, and we have a rolling transition on existing products. Today, most recycled PET bottles are used in textile production. The EU is critical of the environmental claim regarding the use of PET bottles in textile production. The goal in a circular economy should be that polyester fiber is recycled back into polyester fiber. We are monitoring developments and will adjust according to the EU's recommendations and production capabilities.

WASTE DISPOSAL

We do not destroy any of our textile products. Everything is sold as regular stock items or as Outlet items. Unsold goods are sent to Romania or Ukraine. We try to avoid plastic packaging of products as far as possible. Unfortunately, plastic is still important to protect some different items. Where we use plastic packaging, we use pure plastic that has been tested for chemicals. All packaging that is part of our business is recyclable, both cardboard and plastic. In addition, our policy is that all usable packaging from our production will be reused in shipment to our customers. The rest is sent to a local recycling company.

TRANSPORT AND LOGISTICS

Transport and logistics are an important part of our business. We live in a world where many items are ordered in small numbers online and transported by plane around the whole world. The transport sector accounts for a large share of emissions in the world. We have an obligation to be aware of our use of different options of transport services.

Shipping by boat is generally the best option for long distance shipping. The main part of our production is shipped by container boat from Asia. Sea freight is the shipping method with the lowest carbon emissions, and over 97% of our production is transported in large quantities by boat. Air freight should only be used in very special situations. Efficient routines, long-term planning of purchases and the aggregation of goods are therefore important factors for us.

TRACEABILITY

To ensure traceability and product compliance of our organic cotton products, we set up routines and requirements in line with GOTS and OCS certifications. For technical products made of polyester, we have linked up with Bluesign and Global Recycled Standard

In our commitment to transparent and responsible management of certified products, we implement an advanced system of tracking and registration. From the moment goods are received throughout the warehouse, until the orders are invoiced and shipped out to the customer, we ensure full traceability and accuracy. This means that each batch of certified goods will be assigned a unique serial or lot number. This number will be directly linked to the product's certification number and associated certificate and invoice. In this way, we ensure that each item can be traced back to its origin, and that the documentation meets GOTS' requirements for traceability and integrity in future collections.

RISK ASSESSMENTS

In everything we do, we have to consider various risks. We have fixed routines for risk assessments associated with social compliance, raw materials, production countries, factories, suppliers and the various product groups we work with. As a member of the UN Global Compact since May 2010, the company follows its work with an annual progress report in accordance with the UN's ten principles for responsible business conduct. This includes human rights, work environment and anti-corruption. As a supplier of textile products, the purchases are based on the OECD's Due Diligence Guidelines for Responsible Supply Chains in the Textile and Footwear Sector.

The OECD guidelines require all companies to carry out due diligence. This is a six-step due diligence process that aims to map whether the company contributes to risks to people, society, and the environment, and how any damage and negative effects are handled, followed up and communicated externally. Companies must look at risks caused both in their own operations and through business contacts or in the supply chain.

The Regulations relating to systematic health, safety and environment work in enterprises (Internal Control Regulations), the Act relating to the Control of Products and Consumer Services (the Product Control Act) and the Act relating to Enterprises' Transparency and Work with Fundamental Human Rights and Decent Working Conditions (the Transparency Act) are relevant Norwegian laws and regulations that form the basis for our work on the environment, product safety and due diligence.

CERTIFICATION STANDARDS - OUR CERTIFICATIONS / MEMBERSHIPS

The certification standards form an important foundation for guaranteeing that our goods are produced in an ethically responsible manner and taken into account both environmental and social responsibility. By meeting the strictest requirements throughout the value chain, we want to strengthen customer loyalty, while at the same time, actively continue the work towards a more circular economy. The certifications confirm that we as a company and our products promote a more sustainable and equitable global existence.

GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard)

The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) is an internationally recognized certification for textile products made from organically grown fibres. To receive GOTS certification, at least 80% of the textile fibers must be produced through organic farming. The standard also covers extensive environmental and health requirements throughout all stages of the production chain. Furthermore, GOTS sets strict social standards for working conditions, including workers' rights and safety. The certification is enforced through regular inspections carried out by independent and qualified certification bodies, which must be accredited according to international standards such as ISO/IEC Guide 65, to ensure objectivity and trust in the certification process.

OCS (The Organic Content Standard)

The Organic Content Standard (OCS) is a voluntary global standard that sets out the criteria for third-party certification of organic materials and traceability. The aim of OCS is to increase the production of organic agriculture and give companies the opportunity to verify their claims. It also gives organic fiber farmers access to the global organic market for their products.

GRS (Global Recycled Standard)

The Global Recycled Standard is an international, voluntary, full-scale product standard that sets out requirements for third-party certification of recycled content, traceability of the chain, social and environmental practices and chemical restrictions. Control Union Certifications BV is accredited by SLAB for this scheme under registration number CP 004-01.

GRS aims to increase the use of recycled materials in products, and reduce or eliminate damage caused by production. This standard is particularly relevant for companies that want to verify the recycled content of their products (both finished products and intermediate products) and confirm responsible social, environmental and chemical practices in production.

GRS was originally developed by Control Union Certifications in 2008 and ownership was transferred to Textile Exchange on 1 January 2011.

Oeko-tex Standard 100

The OEKO-TEX 100 Standard is an international certification system for textiles, which sets requirements for, among other things, chemical content, content of heavy metals and substances harmful to health in textile production. All fabric by the meter that is used in our textile production must be approved according to the OEKO-TEX 100 standard. In accordance with OEKO-TEX Standard 100, only AZO-free colors are therefore used. We carry out regular random samples which are sent to SGS for testing of illegal content.

STANDARD 100 is one of the world's best-known brands with over 30 years of market experience. Certificates are easily checked for each product with OEKO-TEX® label check.

Bluesign System Partner

Bluesign® is a recognized standard that represents a comprehensive approach to sustainable textile production. By setting strict requirements for the use of chemicals, water and energy consumption, as well as the treatment of emissions throughout the production chain, Bluesign® ensures a more responsible and environmentally friendly production process.

This standard aims to remove harmful substances from the very beginning of the production process, and not only in the finished product, which helps to ensure the highest level of safety for consumers. By focusing on a minimal impact on people and the environment, Bluesign® simultaneously promotes a responsible and efficient use of resources. This not only implies an improvement of environmental and working conditions in textile factories, but also an increased awareness and knowledge among consumers about the sustainable choices they can make when buying textile products.

Through collaboration with industry, Bluesign® works to drive a positive change towards more sustainable production methods and products.

UN Global Compact

In 2010, we became a member of the UN Global Compact (FN), the world's largest initiative for corporate social responsibility. Through our membership of the UN Global Compact, we do our best to run our business in line with the 10 basic principles in human rights, the working environment and anti-corruption. We undertake to submit an annual COP (Communication on Progress), which is an official document in which we describe our objectives. Participation in the UN Global Compact also gives us the opportunity to participate in global initiatives for sustainable development.

Business Social Compliance Initiative | Amfori

In July 2014, we became a member of BSCI (Business Social Compliance Initiative). BSCI is an international organization which aims to ensure the working environment and rights in a global supply chain, and can be regarded as a common work standard. With our BSCI membership, we want to promote YOU BRAND's social responsibility through intensive cooperation with all our suppliers. BSCI provides a common "Code of Conduct" and a development-oriented system to achieve the best possible working conditions throughout the supply chain. Our "Code of Conduct" describes the requirements and expectations we set for our producers and partners, internally and externally. Together, we work towards a common goal of developing working conditions, protecting human rights and helping to reduce pollution of the environment.

Grønt punkt Norge

We want the packaging to be given a new lease of life and take responsibility for the packaging via Grønt Punkt Norge. Grønt Punkt Norge is an organization that helps Norwegian companies recycle packaging. The environmental tax that each member pays is included in its entirety to ensure that the packaging is recycled in accordance with the authorities' current requirements. We are proud to contribute to this sustainable cycle.

Goal 1: Eradicate poverty

This goal is closely linked to Sustainable Development Goal 8 "Decent Work and Economic Growth". Our operations and production contribute to creating a number of jobs throughout the value chain, both locally, nationally and globally. By creating jobs, we contribute to social and economic growth opportunities in several places in the world.

Our contribution to minimizing poverty is to get more people into secure jobs with a decent wage under fair conditions.

Our productions also give us the opportunity to donate surplus goods, discontinued products and sample collections to voluntary organizations we have had a close collaboration with for a number of years. Here we receive annual documentation of who and where our contributions go to.

Our goal is to continue with our contribution to the creation of jobs, and in this way contribute to reducing poverty.

Goal 5: Gender equality

Since 1989, we as a company have maintained a significant gender balance. Of 27 employees, 12 are women and 15 are men. This amounts to 44.44% women and 55.56% men. On the administration side, there are 19 employees, of which 12 are women and 7 are men. This amounts to 63.16% women and 36.84% men.

We have no power in the hiring processes at our production sites, but we can influence through the dialogue with the management, and support organizations that work closer to the local working environments.

Our goal is to continue to influence the factories to practice gender equality.

Goal 8: Decent work and economic growth

We have no power in the hiring processes at our production sites, and the only thing we can do is influence through the dialogue with the management, and support organizations that work closer to the local working environments.

Our goal is to continue to influence the factories to facilitate the best possible working environment and economic growth, and support our requirements and wishes through third-party collaborations.

Goal 12: Responsible consumption and production

We operate responsibly locally. Our head office is powered by renewable energy, and we are waste sorting everything in the building, from each office to the warehouse. Travelling employees use either trains or electric cars. Today, 70% of employees drive electric cars. During the summer months, several employees use bicycles to work.

By 2025, all our company cars will be converted to electric power.

Goal 13: Stop climate change

Most of our local and national efforts are framed by legislation that makes it easier to maintain and document gentle carbon footprints.

We see that the challenge mainly lies in our production sites. First and foremost, because it is difficult for us to be able to verify accurate emissions and to be able to measure and quantify our real reduction. We are aware that it is possible to make estimates based on averages, but this will not give us valid information.

What we can do something about, however, is to continue the work towards long life cycles of our products. That we focus on quality throughout the value chain, from raw material to consumer, and what happens when consumers no longer use our products. We have good documentation that the workwear we produce can withstand long use and hard washing, and we are therefore not a manufacturer of "fast fashion".

Our goal and purpose with the upcoming certification is to be able to document LCA life cycle analysis of our products. By continuing the chain and delivering traceable products that can document a product system "from cradle to grave".

During 2024, our first goal is to become certified within Bluesign, GOTS, Textile Exchanges; GRS and OCS. Further objectives are subject to the responsibility, execution, and the practice of being certified.

Goal 17: Work together to achieve the goals

To succeed in achieving our sustainability goals, we are completely dependent on good help via new and strong partnerships. We know that we already have a good foundation for closer collaboration across the entire value chain, from production, logistics, suppliers, customers and partners in the industry. Nevertheless, we see that an even stronger joint focus will be able to systematize these collaborations in a more efficient way towards our common goals.

The goal for 2024 is to be certified within GOTS, Textile Exchange (GRS and OCS) and Bluesign.

Account of due diligence assessments

The purpose of this report is to give the general public an insight into Handelskompaniet AS's work with due diligence assessments related to basic human rights and decent working conditions. The report applies to the financial year 2023.

Read more about our report here

Communication on Progress

Our membership of the UN Global Compact obliges us to deliver an annual Communication on Progress, which describes our objectives in human rights, the working environment and anti-corruption.

Read more about our progress report here