Updated as of July 2024
Introduction
At Stoic Couture, we are committed to ethical business practices and recognizing the dignity of workers worldwide. We expect our business partners to follow the standards set in this Code of Conduct.
Our Code is based on the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the Core Conventions of the International Labour Organization (ILO). It is regularly reviewed and updated, with the latest version available on our website.
Application and Compliance
This Code applies to all business suppliers, contractors, vendors, licensees, and agents, including those providing finished goods and raw materials. Where the Code and local laws differ, the higher standard applies. Business partners must have policies and management systems to ensure compliance with this Code and local laws. Documentation proving compliance must be provided upon request.
Informed Workplace
Business partners must communicate the principles of this Code to their workers, subcontractors, agents, and representatives. Those involved in our product production must display the Code in a common area in a language understood by workers.
Ethical Standards
We operate under high ethical standards and expect our business partners to do the same, which helps build our corporate reputation and mutual success.
Legal Requirements
The protection of minors is essential. By registering on our website or filling out forms, the data subject confirms they are at least 16 years old or the legal age required by their country of residence.
Employment Practices
Wages and Benefits
Business partners must comply with local wage and benefit laws and meet or exceed national standards to cover basic needs and provide some discretionary income. Transparent wage policies are required.
Working Hours
Compliance with local working hours laws is mandatory, not exceeding 60 hours per week, including overtime, with at least 24 consecutive hours of rest in every 7-day period.
Child Labor
No child labor is allowed. Workers must be at least 15 years old or the legal minimum age for employment. Workers under 18 should not be exposed to hazardous conditions.
Health and Safety
Providing a safe and healthy work environment is mandatory, including dormitories and canteens, where applicable. Unsanitary or hazardous conditions are not allowed.
Freedom of Association
Business partners must respect the right to freedom of association and collective bargaining. Engagement with unions to improve these rights is encouraged.
Forced Labor
Forced labor, including any form of coercion or exploitation, is strictly prohibited. Workers must be free to terminate their employment at any time without penalty. No withholding of wages, identification cards, passports, or personal belongings is allowed.
Ethical Recruitment
No worker should pay for a job. Recruitment costs must be borne by the employer, and any fees paid by workers must be reimbursed. Workers must receive a clear, written contract in a language they understand, and no documents should be retained or monetary deposits demanded.
Harassment, Abuse, and Disciplinary Practices
Workplaces must be free from harassment, abuse, or intimidation. Disciplinary practices must be clear, legal, and impartial.
Discrimination
Discrimination based on personal characteristics or beliefs is not allowed in any aspect of employment. This includes recruitment, hiring, compensation, benefits, advancement, discipline, termination, or retirement.
Environment
Business partners must prioritize environmental protection and adhere to all local and international environmental regulations. Continuous efforts to reduce negative environmental impacts are encouraged.
Conflict Minerals
We encourage responsible sourcing of minerals such as tin, tantalum, gold, and tungsten, in accordance with our Conflict Minerals Policy available on our website.
Subcontracting
Subcontracting services without our prior written consent is prohibited. All subcontractors must meet the standards set in this Code and must be registered with us.
Corruption and Bribery
All forms of corruption, including extortion, bribery, embezzlement, and theft, are prohibited. Offering or accepting corrupt payments or advantages is illegal and against our policy.
Tax Evasion
Business partners must comply with their tax obligations and avoid any actions that would undermine tax responsibilities or assist in tax evasion.
Gift Giving
Gifts to or from Company employees or agents must not exceed $100 and cannot be cash or its equivalent. Reasonable meals, refreshments, and entertainment during business discussions are allowed.
Conflicts of Interest
Business partners must avoid conflicts of interest and disclose any potential or actual conflicts immediately. A conflict may arise when a business partner employs or is managed by a Company employee or their close associate.
Grievance Mechanism
Effective grievance mechanisms must be in place for workers to report workplace concerns confidentially and anonymously. Business partners should respond to concerns in a timely manner and report any non-compliance with this Code to us immediately.
By working with us, business partners acknowledge this Code and commit to adhere to its standards. We reserve the right to take appropriate action and terminate relationships with partners who fail to meet these standards.