Gardeners Acton Modern Slavery Statement

Gardeners Acton confirms its commitment to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking in all forms across our operations and supply chains. This Modern Slavery Statement explains our approach to identifying, assessing and mitigating risks related to modern slavery and forced labour. We operate a zero-tolerance policy to any form of slavery, exploitation or coercion and require the same high standards from every partner and supplier.

As part of our company-wide anti-slavery and human trafficking practice, Gardeners Acton Ltd embeds clear roles and responsibilities into our governance. Our board and senior management oversee compliance with this modern slavery and human trafficking policy and ensure resources are in place to support risk reduction. We provide training for staff with procurement or contractor management responsibilities, and we promote an ethical culture in which workers are respected and protected.

Our zero tolerance stance is explicit: any evidence of forced labour, bonded labour or trafficking will prompt immediate action, including termination of contracts, remedial measures for affected individuals and, where necessary, engagement of law enforcement. We will not tolerate slavery in any part of our business or supply chain and will act decisively when issues are identified.

Supplier Due Diligence and Audits

Gardeners Acton operates a structured supplier due diligence programme focused on preventing modern slavery risks. We assess new and existing suppliers using risk-based criteria, and we require contractual representations on labour standards. Our procurement process includes background checks, document reviews and explicit clauses that mandate compliance with our anti-slavery policy.

To verify compliance, we conduct regular supplier audits and site visits. Audits combine self-assessment questionnaires, documentary review and, when indicated, on-site inspections by trained auditors. Key audit objectives include verifying lawful employment practices, safe working conditions, and the absence of coercion or debt bondage. If non-compliance is detected, we implement corrective action plans and monitor progress until standards are met.

We also maintain a programme of continuous improvement with suppliers, offering guidance and support to help them meet our expectations. Where suppliers demonstrate persistent failure to remediate serious breaches, we reserve the right to suspend or terminate relationships in line with our contractual terms.

Reporting Channels and Worker Protections

Gardeners Acton provides multiple confidential reporting channels to encourage the reporting of suspected slavery and exploitation. These channels include internal reporting pathways, anonymous whistleblowing options and clear escalation routes to senior management. Reports are taken seriously and investigated promptly, with protections against retaliation for those who raise concerns.

We ensure affected workers have access to support measures, including referral to appropriate services and cooperation with authorities where required. Our reporting and remediation process is transparent, victim-focused and seeks to restore dignity and remedy harm. We document incidents and corrective steps, and we use lessons learned to strengthen our controls.

Key elements of our approach include:

• Zero-tolerance policy embedded in contracts and communicated across the business;
• Risk-based supplier audits and on-site verifications;
• Multiple reporting channels with protection for whistleblowers;
• Corrective action plans and supplier development programmes;
• Regular monitoring and annual assessment of modern slavery risk.

Gardeners Acton publishes this statement to demonstrate our commitment to combatting modern slavery and human trafficking and to drive continuous improvement across our operations and supply chains. We will continue to engage with stakeholders, invest in training and refine our processes to reduce the risk of exploitation.

We review and update this modern slavery statement annually. The annual review examines the effectiveness of our policies, audits and reporting channels, and sets objectives for the coming year. Through persistent vigilance and collaboration with suppliers and industry partners, Gardeners Acton aims to prevent modern slavery, protect workers and maintain the highest standards of ethical conduct.