Modern Slavery Statement

Gardeners Holloway Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the actions taken by Gardeners Holloway to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our business operations and supply chains. Gardeners Holloway recognises that modern slavery is a grave violation of fundamental human rights and we are committed to identifying, preventing, and addressing any such risks linked to our activities.

Our Commitment and Zero-Tolerance Policy

Gardeners Holloway operates a clear zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, forced labour, child labour, human trafficking, servitude, and debt bondage. This applies to our direct operations, as well as to all tiers of our supply chain. We expect everyone working with or on behalf of Gardeners Holloway to share this commitment and to uphold the highest standards of ethical conduct.

We are committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all business relationships, implementing and enforcing effective systems and controls to ensure modern slavery is not present in any part of our operations or supply chains. Any suspicion or evidence of modern slavery is treated seriously and may result in termination of contracts or working relationships.

Governance and Accountability

Responsibility for overseeing our approach to modern slavery sits with the senior management team of Gardeners Holloway. They ensure that appropriate risk assessments, due diligence procedures, and response mechanisms are in place and are regularly reviewed. Managers are responsible for promoting awareness of modern slavery risks within their teams and ensuring that policies and procedures are implemented consistently.

All staff are required to act in accordance with our values and policies. Failure to do so may lead to disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment or contract.

Supply Chain Standards and Supplier Audits

Gardeners Holloway recognises that the greatest risk of modern slavery lies within complex and extended supply chains. We therefore set clear expectations for all suppliers, contractors, and service providers that they must operate in full compliance with applicable labour, employment, and human rights laws and must take proactive steps to prevent modern slavery in their own operations and supply chains.

We conduct supplier due diligence and risk assessments when entering new relationships and, where appropriate, on an ongoing basis. This may include requests for information on labour practices, workforce conditions, recruitment methods, and subcontracting arrangements. Gardeners Holloway also carries out audits, which may be desk-based or on-site, to verify compliance with our modern slavery requirements.

Where non-compliance or elevated risk is identified, Gardeners Holloway will work collaboratively with suppliers to develop corrective action plans and monitor progress. If issues are not resolved within agreed timeframes, or if serious violations are found, we may suspend or terminate the business relationship.

Training, Awareness and Reporting Channels

We are committed to raising awareness of modern slavery risks among our employees and key suppliers. Training and guidance are provided, proportionate to role and responsibility, to help individuals recognise the signs of modern slavery, understand our policies, and know how to respond to potential concerns.

Gardeners Holloway encourages all employees, contractors, and suppliers to speak up if they suspect modern slavery or any other unethical behaviour. Concerns can be raised through internal reporting channels, including line managers or designated senior managers. Reports will be treated sensitively, and we will not tolerate any form of retaliation against individuals who raise concerns in good faith.

All reports are investigated promptly and fairly. Where concerns are substantiated, Gardeners Holloway will take appropriate remedial and disciplinary action and, where required, cooperate with relevant authorities.

Continuous Improvement and Annual Review

Gardeners Holloway understands that tackling modern slavery is an ongoing process requiring continuous improvement. We regularly review our policies, risk assessments, and due diligence procedures to ensure they remain effective and responsive to evolving risks in our sector and supply chains.

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed and approved annually by the senior management team. As part of the annual review process, we assess the effectiveness of our actions, consider any incidents or lessons learned, and identify opportunities to strengthen our approach. Updated versions of this statement will reflect any significant changes in our risk profile, policies, or control measures.

By publishing this statement, Gardeners Holloway reaffirms its commitment to eradicating modern slavery and human trafficking from its operations and supply chains and to promoting respect for human rights in everything we do.