Modern Slavery Statement
Revolver Co-operative Modern Slavery Policy
Purpose
Revolver Co-operative is a mission-driven enterprise dedicated to creating a sustainable and ethical business model that supports small-scale farmers and promotes Fairtrade practices. Our commitment extends beyond commerce; we reinvest profits into the communities of our cooperative partners, providing them with essential resources, training, and opportunities to thrive. Through fair pricing and an ethical supply chain, Revolver Co-operative demonstrates how business can drive positive change for people and the planet.
Operations
Revolver Co-operative operates primarily within the UK, with a diverse network of producers and cooperative partners across the globe. We are structured as a cooperative and managed by an independent Board of Directors, ensuring that our stakeholders’ interests are represented at all levels of the organisation. Our primary activities include the sale and distribution of coffee and related products, adhering to the highest standards of ethical sourcing and transparency within our supply chain.
Definitions
Revolver Co-operative considers that modern slavery encompasses:
- Human trafficking;
- Forced labour, through mental or physical threat;
- Control by an employer through abuse, exploitation, or threats;
- Dehumanisation, where individuals are treated as property or a commodity;
- Physical constraint or restriction on freedom of movement.
Commitment
Revolver Co-operative is fully committed to addressing modern slavery and human trafficking in all areas of our business and supply chain. We strictly comply with the Modern Slavery Act 2015 and commit to ongoing reviews of both our internal practices and external partnerships. We do not engage in business with organisations, within the UK or internationally, that are known to support or engage in any form of slavery, servitude, or forced labor.
Our commitment to the Modern Slavery Act 2015 includes:
- Conducting due diligence on new suppliers to ensure ethical practices;
- Requiring that all employees are paid at least the applicable minimum wage in their respective countries;
- Implementing zero tolerance for modern slavery within our supply chain;
- Partnering with third-party certification bodies, such as Fairtrade and Rainforest Alliance, to conduct audits and uphold labor rights standards.
Monitoring & Reporting
Our ethical business practices are outlined in our Code of Conduct, Supplier Code, and Environmental & Ethical Policy. We utilise tools and services, such as Sedex, to formalise and assess human rights and environmental due diligence across our supply chain, extending this oversight to our key suppliers involved in coffee roasting, processing, packaging, and logistics.
In cases where a supplier does not meet our standards, Revolver Co-operative commits to working with them to ensure improvements. Failure to meet our standards within a specified timeframe may result in termination of the business relationship.
Within our workplace, we prioritise open communication and offer employees anonymous channels to report any grievances or concerns.
Communication
We communicate this policy to all employees, suppliers, and key stakeholders to reinforce our zero-tolerance stance on modern slavery and our commitment to ethical labour practices.
Governance
Our Modern Slavery Policy is overseen by the Senior Management Team and the independent Board of Directors, who are responsible for ensuring that Revolver Co-operative remains compliant with the latest legal and ethical standards.
Review
This policy will be reviewed every three years, or sooner if necessary, to ensure continued alignment with legal standards and best practices in ethical business conduct.
Date: March 2024