In January 2012, the California Transparency in Supply Chains Act went into effect. This California statute requires retailers and manufacturers to disclose “efforts to eradicate slavery and human trafficking from their direct supply chains for tangible goods offered for sale.” Brunswick Corporation (“Brunswick” or “Company”) is an ethical enterprise and expects its employees and suppliers to engage in lawful and ethical business practices. The use of slave labor or human trafficking in the manufacture of Brunswick products or components supplied to the Company is unethical and unacceptable.
Brunswick supply agreements require suppliers to manufacture and supply products in compliance with applicable laws, regulations and industry standards. This comprehensive provision, coupled with the Brunswick Code of Conduct, confirm the Company’s commitment to lawful and ethical practices, including labor practices. Supply agreements entered into after January 2012 will include a provision specifically requiring suppliers to comply with all applicable laws related to slavery and human trafficking and to certify that the supplier and its products comply with the laws regarding slavery and human trafficking of the country or countries in which they are doing business. Brunswick supply agreements require suppliers to warrant their compliance with applicable laws, regulations and industry standards.
Brunswick validates and approves its Tier 1 suppliers based on a variety of criteria. Brunswick uses a variety of means, including Company conducted audits, to verify and evaluate its supply base. Supplier compliance with applicable laws, regulations and industry standards is among the items audited by the Company. Brunswick does not currently engage a third party in the supply chain verification process to specifically evaluate and address the risks of human trafficking and slavery.
The Company trains its employees in a variety of areas, including ethical business conduct. Employees and management participating in the Company’s international trade and supply chain are trained regarding the risks of doing business in high risk countries and/or with high risk trading partners, including risk mitigation efforts. The Company does not maintain internal accountability and procedures for employees or contractors related to failing to meet standards specifically regarding slavery and human trafficking. However, the Company maintains a robust ethics and compliance program which encourages reporting and is designed to identify and promptly address unethical or unlawful business practices, including labor practices.
