In 1996, OTTO drew up its own "Code of Conduct", which has been part of all contracts with suppliers since 1997. It stipulates the minimum social standards that all business partners and their subcontractors must comply with in production. In 2006, the Code of Conduct was expanded to include items such as anti-corruption measures and good management practice. Today, the version listed here applies to the entire Otto Group.
(last updated: 2007)
We believe in social responsibility, environmental protection and fair cooperation as the guiding tenets in all that we do. From all Otto Group employees and as a precondition for all our business relationships, we require our staff and business partners to adhere to the following conditions as basic rights for employees, both in their own areas and at their subcontractors. Business partners guarantee that the production of goods for Otto Group is carried out exclusively at the facilities indicated to the Group.
The social standards as described in this code are based on ILO conventions, the United Nations' Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the UN Conventions on the Rights of the Child and on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women and the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises. They constitute the absolute minimum. Wherever the provision of national and international laws, industry standards and this Code address the same subject, the stricter regulation applies.
The following Otto Group contact details concerning any breaches of this code shall be accessible at all times to all employees: compliance@ottogroup.com
Child labor is forbidden both in the manufacturing of goods and the provision of services. Regulations and legislation for the protection of young employees must be obeyed.
The use of forced labor, bonded or slave labor, physical punishment, or physical or psychological coercion is prohibited. The Otto Group prohibits in particular the use of prison labor.
No employee or job applicant shall be discriminated on the basis of personal characteristics or beliefs.
The right of employees to form or join workers' organizations of their own choice and to bargain collectively shall not be restricted.
The maximum working week on a regular basis shall not exceed 48 hours respectively 60 hours including paid overtime based on the statutory regulations. Employees are entitled to at least one day off after 6 consecutive working days.
Employees must be provided with working contracts and paid wages and other benefits in accordance with those stipulated in the applicable legislation or the practices of the local manufacturing industry,whichever is higher. The objective is that the wages paid cover the costs of living should legal minimum wages fail to do so. Wages shall not be reduced as a disciplinary measure.
Working conditions must be safe and may not constitute a hazard to health.The same principles apply to employee accommodation if this is provided.
In order to meet all requirements as set forth in this Code and in national laws, employers shall establish a minimum set of management functions. This includes clear responsibilities, procedures and appropriate documentation to demonstrate compliance with this Code and local laws.
Business partners shall share the Otto Group's precautionary approach to environmental challenges and all business practices and procedures must meet or exceed minimum legal requirements on environmental protection.
This code must be freely accessible and understandable to all employees. Employees shall receive training on their rights and obligations as defined by this code and applicable local laws.
Employees have the right to communicate any breaches of the standards set forth in this code to the Otto Group. Employers shall refrain from any form of disciplinary measure or reprisal towards any individual or group coming forward with a complaint.
Business partners and their subcontractors agree that compliance with these requirements may be monitored by the Otto Group or by any independent organization. Any infringement of these minimum requirements can lead to the termination of the business relationship without any further obligation for the Otto Group.