VANOC also implemented its Licensee Code of Conduct in late 2006 to ensure suppliers of licensed merchandise meet credible standards for ethical, social and environmental compliance. This Code mandates independent factory monitoring and enables us to evaluate factory performance. To support continual improvement, a factory may need to take timely corrective actions; otherwise, the contract with VANOC may be terminated. In addition, we contracted an internationally recognized independent auditing firm to conduct factory audits for VANOC Licensees and support the creation of Corrective Action Plans for factories that were non-compliant with aspects of the Code.

A challenge remains around regularly evaluating compliance. VANOC relies on regular licensee engagement through pre-contract audits, ongoing information sharing and consultations. We also seek advice from ethical supply chain experts and related non-governmental organizations. However, it is extremely difficult and expensive to go beyond this level of due diligence. As a project entity in business for only seven years, at this time VANOC is choosing to focus on strong licensee selection, rigorous screening processes and continual improvement activities, such as corrective action program planning and implementation.

Licensee Code of Conduct (PDF, 56KB)

VANOC Supplier Code of Conduct

Following on the successful implementation of the Licensee Code of Conduct, and as a result of input from stakeholders, VANOC has subsequently introduced a Supplier Code of Conduct to the Buy Smart program. The key feature of this approach is that regular suppliers will agree to adhere to the same minimum standards as licensees and VANOC will use a risk-based approach to assess supplier compliance.

Supplier Code of Conduct (PDF, 27 KB)