Many challenges related to human rights, working conditions and fairness in global value chains are structural and extend beyond individual companies. That is why Marimekko advances its sustainability work in collaboration with suppliers, industry initiatives and other stakeholders.
The global textile industry is complex and multi-layered, and production may take place in several countries with multiple suppliers. Companies in the industry can only rarely solve human rights challenges on their own, as these are often linked to local legislation as well as economic and social conditions. Marimekko approaches influence through collaboration – we believe that long-term partnerships support lasting improvements and that common operating models increase transparency and effectiveness. In addition, learning and the sharing of best practices strengthen the entire industry.
Collaboration with suppliers
Marimekko advances human rights primarily through its own operations and value chains, but also by participating in joint initiatives and discussion. For us, influence means identifying and raising human rights impacts and increasing transparency in supply chains. In addition, we participate in collaboration that supports the advancement of living wages and safe working conditions, as well as consideration of children’s rights and vulnerable groups.
Our approach is based on long-term development and collaboration, not one-off solutions.
Collaboration with suppliers is a key part of Marimekko’s sustainability work. We aim to build long-term, trust-based partnerships with our contract manufacturers. In practice, this means:
- regular dialogue and factory visits
- addressing audit findings together with suppliers
- planning and follow-up of corrective actions
- development work that goes beyond compliance alone
Our aim is to support suppliers in developing their own ways of working and to strengthen responsibility in value chains. Naturally, we also reflect on how we at Marimekko can continuously improve our own operations, for example our purchasing practices.
Responsible business initiatives
Marimekko participates in several international initiatives that support responsible business and the realization of human rights in supply chains. Key forms of collaboration include:
- amfori BSCI, which provides tools for monitoring and developing working conditions
- Transparency Pledge, in line with which we publish annual information on our key contract manufacturers
- The Centre for Child Rights and Business, whose working group we participate in to advance the consideration of children’s rights in value chains
Through these initiatives, Marimekko can contribute to broader dialogue and development work that extends beyond the influence of any single company.
Openness and transparency as a foundation for impact
Openness is an essential part of impactful sustainability work. At Marimekko, we foster transparency by publishing information about our value chain, our key principles and policies, and the progress of our sustainability work.
Among other things, we publish:
- a list of our key contract manufacturers, aligned with the Transparency Pledge, an initiative promoting supply chain transparency in the apparel and footwear industry
- the key principles and operating models that guide our sustainability work
- information on audits and ongoing development work as part of our sustainability reporting
We believe that openness builds trust and enables constructive dialogue with our stakeholders.