In keeping with our principles of fairness, flexibility and openness we have taken constructive steps to help the businesses we trade with, especially small enterprises, to remain viable. For example:
- We give suppliers clear guidance on payment terms and pay them on time. This is reflected in the Partnership becoming a co-supporter of the voluntary scheme: Government's Prompt Payment Code.
- Through Waitrose's milk price pledge, we agree to pay our dairy farmers a premium over the market price. Our pricing model for British pig farmers, takes into account the cost of sustainable production methods, ensuring our suppliers receive a fair return.
- Since February 2010, Waitrose, along with all major food retailers, is required to comply with the Groceries Supply Code of Practice (GSCOP). GSCOP, the result of the Competition Commission's investigation, protects suppliers from excessive risks and undue costs. A Waitrose project team ensures compliance and the GSCOP terms are communicated to all suppliers.
- One of our models for community engagement with our suppliers is the John Lewis Foundation, established to improve the wellbeing of our suppliers' communities, in the UK and overseas. The Foundation makes grants to improve disadvantaged communities in which suppliers live and work.
- The Waitrose Foundation is a supply chain partnership that returns a percentage of profits from the sale of produce to fund projects chosen by the farmers and smallholders who grew it. Find out more about the Waitrose Foundation.