ETI conference 2005 - Shaping a new agenda
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P3: Marrying the commercial with the ethical
quicklinks: briefing paper, presentations
Day 1, afternoon plenary:
There has been growing debate over the last couple of years about the need to integrate ethical trade considerations into the purchasing practices of retailers and brands, and ultimately, into the way they do business overall. Many corporate ethical trade/CSR staff agree with NGOs and trade unions that this needs to be done – but what’s in it for the rest of the company, in particular buyers and senior managers? This session provided participants with:
- The rationale – how current purchasing practices can undermine the efforts of compliance staff, and how improving purchasing practices can yield commercial as well as ethical benefits.
- A company case study – showing practical initiatives that companies can take, and how potential barriers can be overcome.
(See also Critical Issues Workshop 10, which showcases further examples of different ways in which retailers and brands have sought to bridge the gap between the commercial and ethical trade agendas - link at foot of this page.)
BRIEFING PAPERS
Based on presentations and discussions from the conference, this set of briefing papers has been designed to provide practical guidance to brands, retailers, suppliers and others on addressing cutting edge issues in ethical trade, such as resolving difficult non-compliances, improving purchasing practices, and working with trade unions.


