Modern Slavery Statement

Gardeners Hatton Modern Slavery Statement

This Modern Slavery Statement is made by Gardeners Hatton in respect of the financial year to which it relates. It outlines the steps we are taking to identify, prevent, and address modern slavery and human trafficking within our operations and supply chains. Gardeners Hatton is committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all business relationships and to implementing effective systems and controls to ensure that modern slavery does not occur in any part of our business.

Our Business and Supply Chains

Gardeners Hatton operates within the horticultural and gardening sector, supplying products and related services to a range of customers. Our supply chains include growers, manufacturers, logistics providers, and service partners. We recognise that some parts of the horticultural, agricultural, and manufacturing industries can be vulnerable to labour exploitation, and we are determined to work only with partners who share our commitment to human rights and fair working practices.

Zero-Tolerance Policy on Modern Slavery

Gardeners Hatton has a clear zero-tolerance approach to all forms of modern slavery, including forced labour, bonded labour, human trafficking, child labour that contravenes international standards, and any form of exploitation or coercion. This principle is embedded in our internal policies, supplier requirements, and decision-making processes. We will not knowingly work with any organisation that fails to uphold these standards, and we reserve the right to terminate relationships where credible concerns are identified and not promptly and effectively addressed.

Supplier Standards and Audits

All suppliers and service providers engaged by Gardeners Hatton are expected to comply with applicable labour, employment, and human rights laws, as well as our own ethical expectations. We communicate our standards during supplier onboarding and, where relevant, through contractual provisions. To support compliance, we conduct risk-based due diligence and supplier audits. These reviews may include site visits, interviews, document checks, and assessments of labour practices, working conditions, and recruitment processes.

Where higher risk is identified, we may increase the frequency or depth of audits and seek detailed corrective action plans. We work collaboratively with suppliers to improve standards but will take decisive action, including suspension or termination of contracts, if serious or repeated breaches related to modern slavery or human trafficking are identified.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

Gardeners Hatton encourages employees, workers within our supply chain, and any other stakeholders to report concerns about modern slavery, exploitation, or unethical behaviour. Concerns can be raised through established internal reporting channels or directly to management. Reports will be treated seriously and handled sensitively, with appropriate steps taken to investigate and address any issues identified.

We are committed to ensuring that no one who raises a concern in good faith suffers any form of retaliation or disadvantage as a result of speaking up. We aim to foster a culture in which people feel confident to report suspicions of modern slavery at the earliest opportunity.

Training and Awareness

To support the implementation of this statement, Gardeners Hatton provides relevant employees with information and training on recognising signs of modern slavery and understanding how to escalate any concerns. Awareness is particularly targeted at staff involved in procurement, supplier management, and operations where the risk of labour exploitation may be higher.

Continuous Improvement and Annual Review

Gardeners Hatton recognises that tackling modern slavery is an ongoing responsibility. We are committed to continually improving our systems, processes, and oversight mechanisms to reduce the risk of exploitation within our business and supply chains. This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed annually by our leadership team to assess the effectiveness of our actions, reflect on any incidents or concerns raised, and identify opportunities for enhancement.

Following each annual review, we will update this statement where necessary to reflect any changes in our structure, operations, supply chains, risk profile, or the measures we are taking to combat modern slavery and human trafficking. This statement has been approved by the leadership of Gardeners Hatton, who are responsible for ensuring its implementation and ongoing effectiveness.