Globally Accredited Partner Programme
K2’s 2023 Sustainability Report sets out the actions we are taking, as well as the standards against which our performance can be judged.
We understand that continuity of efforts is key – a ‘one and done’ approach won’t suffice. ESG reporting is a never-ending story, one which needs to be effectively and transparently documented.
2023 SLA / Code of Conduct updates
K2’s Supply Chain Team supports our client service delivery teams with trusted, accredited K2 Partners. In 2023 K2 updated its Service Level Agreements (SLAs) and Code of Conduct to align with the UNGC principles and the UN Sustainable Development Goals. At K2 we promote best practice across our partner network in all areas of sustainability, to protect human rights and guard against child labour.
Every new K2 Partner must complete the Sustainability section of the Pre-qualification Questionnaire to determine if they have an effective sustainability management system in place. This was introduced in July 2023. Checks for existing partners will be implemented in 2024 as part of the usual performance review process.
The Code of Conduct and GDPR Contractual Clauses have been incorporated into the body of the partner SLA. These revised contracts were signed by every partner in K2’s Globally Accredited Partner Programme (GAPP). K2’s GAPP ensures that we will not engage with any contractor, agent, consultant, supplier, client, business partner or a thirdparty whose business practices conflict with the Code of Conduct.
Global Accredited Partner Programme (GAPP)
In 2023 we collaborated with the University of Bath to undertake a technical evaluation of K2’s Commercial Team, responsible for procurement of services and management of our supply chain, to assess whether it would support the company’s evolving and growing business. One aim of this evaluation was to determine our Partners’ suitability for inclusion within K2’s Sustainability Programme. This consultation identified that certain organisational changes would be required within the Commercial function in order to build a sustainable supply chain for the future.
Supply Chain Management Goals for 2024:
- Increasing the number of EcoVadis rated partners to 55% (based on total supply chain spend), with a minimum of 100 partners rated.
- Increase the average EcoVadis rating of partners to 56 (Bronze medal level).
- Develop a process map for the Supply Chain function – to bring global consistency in line with KINETIC strategy, the 17 Sustainable Development Goals, and continued commitment to the UN Global Compact.
- Stress test of Supply Chain partners with the aim of K2 certification.
- Share test results of more sustainable packing materials, with the aim of reducing plastic use within HHG Partners packing by end of 2024.
- Building sustainability audits into Partner performance reviews.
