SA8000 is a relatively new certification that only a few companies in the United Kingdom have obtained so far. It serves as proof of human rights compliance within the company and ensures that the socially responsible management system is properly implemented, monitored and applied throughout the supply chain.
Patience and transparency lead to success
Sedus initially obtained certification in 2023. This pioneering role also presented a number of challenges. Anja Peter (Sustainability & Health and Safety) explains: "For us, SA8000 was a new standard, structured differently from the ISO standards we are familiar with. Before the first audit, we didn't know what the auditors would be looking for specifically and how certain aspects of SA8000 should be implemented. But after the first appointment, we were able to assess this quite well."
The many interfaces between departments were also crucial in the implementation process: "It was difficult to reconcile them all. Departments with no experience of audits or standards, such as purchasing, are most affected by SA8000. However, they were able to perform their tasks well."
Nora Trachternach, Group Director of Purchasing at Sedus, explains: "As one of the first companies in Germany to engage intensively with the SA8000 standard, we faced the challenge of developing many approaches on our own – there were few peers with practical experience. Internally, it was particularly important to not only raise awareness of the standard among our employees in purchasing and quality assurance, but also to communicate its content in a clear, practical and application-oriented manner. The Sustainability Department supported us throughout with outstanding commitment and expertise."
Communication with suppliers also presented a hurdle: "Many were unfamiliar with the standard, which led to uncertainty and queries. Here, it was crucial to work with patience, transparency and clear language. Through targeted information measures, personal discussions and a partnership-based approach, we were able to build trust and develop practical solutions together. In this way, we succeeded not only in formally implementing the standard, but also in anchoring it as an integral part of our supply chain strategy."
A joint path to implementation
The successful implementation of the SA8000 standard was ultimately the result of a collaborative effort involving many contributors. Once the foundations were established and processes adapted, the next step was to embed the system in detail and integrate it into day-to-day operations. Different perspectives from various areas played an important role in this – from process design and communication to continuous improvement.
Wolfgang Kautz, Chairman Workers Council, emphasises: "One of the biggest challenges was adapting existing processes to the new standards. However, through regular and open communication, we were able to overcome these hurdles and successfully implement the standard."
Simon Roquette, Head of Sustainability & Workplace Safety, also emphasises the collaborative approach: "The implementation presented numerous challenges – especially because the departments were more involved than before. However, we were able to support each other as a team, and the exchange with the auditors also helped to clarify ambiguities and find solutions together."
More than a standard
The introduction of the SA8000 standard has not only established new structures at Sedus, but also significantly strengthened awareness of social responsibility across the company. Thanks to open communication, the dedication of everyone involved and the consistent integration of the stabndard into existing processes, its requirements have been firmly embedded for the long term. In doing so, Sedus is sending a strong message in support of responsible, forward-thinking, and people-centred business practices - well beyond the scope of mere certification.
social media channels:
