Supply chains today are under more scrutiny than ever, but most organisations still struggle to see what’s really happening deep within their networks. We analysed thousands of data points from 60,000+ recent SMETA audits, supplier SAQ data, and more, to help you understand where risk truly sits. Our latest analysis offers an insight into the labour, ethical and environmental concerns identified on-the-ground at supply chain worksites worldwide:
SEVERE ISSUES
flagged every week
SITE SYSTEMS GAPS
in child labour prevention
+
SITE ISSUES
resolved in just one year
+
ISSUES IDENTIFIED
in just four years
Key Findings From Sedex Data
46% of audited siteswere experiencing wage-related issues
From missing benefits to unpaid wages, these issues may disproportionately affect vulnerable groups including women and migrant workers. Apply these lenses to spot increased risks and impact. Wages concerns can also indicate hidden subcontracting, or more severe exploitation
29% of sites don’t know end-customers’ environmental requirements
Achieving environmental goals depends on collaboration, which starts with bringing everyone in a supply chain on-board to agree commitments and shared actions. This statistic shows supplier engagement may be lacking, especially further upstream in supply chains.
38% fewer critical issues at sites with gender-balanced management
SMETA finds fewer serious issues at sites where women and men are equally represented in supervisory roles. Balanced leadership is essential to addressing gendered risks — from harassment to unequal pay — and supports better operations generally, as this insight shows
30%fewer issuesat sites respecting freedom of association
Freedom of association is a fundamental right that protects workers and lowers risks of exploitation, including forced labour. Our analysis finds that SMETA audits identify 30% more issues at sites saying they refuse to engage with trade unions, compared to those that do engage.
