The global supply chains that produce and deliver our products are complex.  Where complexity lies, so does risk, and with risk comes potential exploitation.  The antithesis of exploitation is transparency.  Empowered consumers and educated retailers can force change and place pressure on supply chains and manufacturers that don’t comply with the most basic of human rights. Every child has a right to a childhood.  Unfortunately, millions of children world-wide are being denied this right through child labour.

Child Labor Free (https://www.childlaborfree.com) works with brands and businesses to review their supply chains, create transparency and accredit their products and services. Products certified with the Child Labor Free mark provides assurance that these brands are committed to operating ethically and free of child labor.  Child Labor Free provides a globally recognised mark of certainty.

UNICEF estimates that 150 million children worldwide are engaged in child labor.  While there has been growing discussion around the issue in the media and amongst consumers, to date there has still been very little tangible progress made.   Child Labor Free’s ethos is a strong holistic approach to this complex issue.  They shift the conversation from naming and blaming to a journey of transparency to drive meaningful change.

In 2015 the Modern Slavery Act (MSA) was voted into law by the UK Parliament. MSA reporting requires that organisations with an annual turnover of £36 million, wherever incorporated, that are carrying on a business or part of a business in the UK, and which are supplying goods or services, must publish a Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement.  The UK Home Office observes that:

“Child Labor Free certification for companies is strong evidence within a statement in complying with the Modern Slavery Act provisions.”

In July 2016, Child Labor Free UK was officially launched.  Child Labor Free has since formed a strategic partnership with SP Sourcing and have secured the first adopter of the Child Labor Free mark in the UK, Fashion Enter. Many more partnerhsips and relationships are in motion at various stages of progression

Citrus Tree is engaged with Child Labor Free providing market support, delivering market intelligence and engagement leads.  Areas of focus include, but are not limited to: apparel, manufacturing and the food supply.  Through targeted relationships and strategic alliances Citrus Tree is quantifying opportunities and actively seeking to identify organisations that wish to meet their MSA obligations.

For further information and introductions please contact Citrus Tree Consultants.