Modern Slavery Statement

Gardeners Chinatown Modern Slavery Statement

Introduction and Purpose

This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps Gardeners Chinatown has taken, and continues to take, to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking in our operations and supply chains. We recognise that modern slavery is a serious crime and an abuse of fundamental human rights. As a business, we are committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all our relationships, and to implementing and enforcing effective controls to ensure modern slavery has no place in any aspect of our activities.

Our Zero-Tolerance Policy

Gardeners Chinatown operates a clear and unequivocal zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, debt bondage, and child labour that is not in line with applicable laws. We do not accept, condone, or overlook any practice that exploits people, whether within our own business or in our wider supply chain. All colleagues, contractors, and suppliers are expected to uphold this commitment and to act in ways that respect the dignity and rights of every individual.

Our zero-tolerance stance is embedded in our internal policies, supplier expectations, and day-to-day decision making. We will not knowingly work with any organisation that fails to uphold these standards or that refuses to collaborate with us to improve working conditions and labour practices.

Supply Chain Standards and Due Diligence

Our supply chain includes growers, manufacturers, logistics providers, service partners, and other commercial suppliers. We aim to work only with organisations that can demonstrate respect for human rights and compliance with all relevant labour legislation in the jurisdictions where they operate.

As part of our due diligence, we communicate our expectations on modern slavery and ethical conduct to existing and potential suppliers. We require suppliers to confirm that they do not engage in modern slavery practices and that they, in turn, expect the same from their own suppliers and subcontractors. Where appropriate, we request information about suppliers operating locations, recruitment practices, and labour standards, enabling us to assess modern slavery risks and address any areas of concern.

Supplier Audits and Monitoring

To support our zero-tolerance approach, Gardeners Chinatown conducts proportionate audits and monitoring activities focused on higher-risk suppliers and regions. These audits may include site visits, document checks, and discussions with management and, where feasible, with workers. The objective is to confirm compliance with labour laws, verify working conditions, and identify potential indicators of exploitation or coercion.

Where audits identify non-compliance or potential risk, we expect suppliers to implement timely corrective actions and to demonstrate meaningful improvement. Failure to address serious issues or a refusal to cooperate with our auditing and monitoring expectations may result in the suspension or termination of the business relationship.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

Gardeners Chinatown encourages anyone who has concerns about modern slavery or unethical labour practices connected to our business or supply chain to speak up. Colleagues are supported by internal reporting routes, including escalation to line managers or senior management. External stakeholders, such as suppliers or contractors, are similarly encouraged to report concerns directly to our management team.

We are committed to handling all reports sensitively and, where possible, confidentially, and to protecting individuals who raise genuine concerns from retaliation or disadvantage. All allegations and concerns relating to modern slavery will be taken seriously, investigated promptly, and addressed through appropriate remedial actions, which may include engaging with the supplier, escalating to relevant authorities, or reconsidering the commercial relationship.

Training, Awareness, and Continuous Improvement

We recognise that effectively addressing modern slavery risks requires ongoing awareness and vigilance. Gardeners Chinatown provides relevant teams with guidance on identifying potential indicators of modern slavery and on using our reporting channels when issues are suspected. We review our internal processes on a regular basis to strengthen controls, improve risk assessments, and embed responsible business practices in our culture.

Annual Review and Approval

This Modern Slavery Statement is reviewed at least once every year to ensure it remains accurate, effective, and aligned with current legislation and good practice. As part of the annual review, we evaluate the effectiveness of our due diligence, audits, and reporting mechanisms and consider what further steps we can take to reduce the risk of modern slavery within our operations and supply chains.

The reviewed statement is submitted to the leadership of Gardeners Chinatown for approval. Once approved, it is communicated internally and made available externally so that our stakeholders can understand the commitments we have made and hold us accountable for delivering on them.