Aldi Group

[Translation] "Our engagement covers our own business operations and relationships as well as the indirect consequences of our actions. From our employees, management, business partners and suppliers we expect that they will respect human rights according to this guideline and ensure that all operations are carried out in accordance with our engagement for human rights ... we see certain human rights aspects as more urgent, because our measures can have a stronger influence on them ... ban on child labour and forced labour ... no discrimination and equal treatment of all employees ... health and safety at the workplace ... right of association and right to collectively bargain... promoting living wages"

"ALDI supports the integration of mechanisms for achieving living wages and living incomes into certification standards. Where certification reaches its limits, ALDI will pursue the following approach in order to increase incomes: 1. Payment of premiums by ALDI to enable smallholders to earn a living income, coupled with responsible purchasing practices such as long-term contracts and risk sharing (for instance through insurances aimed at increasing the resilience of smallholders). 2. Income diversification: Solely paying higher prices could lead to overproduction and increased pressure on ecosystems, which is why ALDI promotes alternative income sources for smallholders and works with trusted partners who enable access to credits, loans, input and training for smallholders”

[Translation] "ALDI recognises and acknowledges that women and girls are among those most affected by human rights violations and that they are still discriminated against and disadvantaged worldwide [...] To address gender inequality and improve working conditions for women, we at ALDI strive for gender equality along our supply chains where it is weakened or at risk. [...] Principles: Ensure a discrimination-free environment and equal pay [...]Combat violence against women and girls"

[Translation] "We consider certain human rights issues to be more urgent, as our actions could have a greater impact on them. This includes, but is not limited to, the following issues: [...] zero tolerance of, and zero involvement in, threats, intimidation and attacks on human rights defenders and activists"

[Translation] "Our goal is to exclude deforestation by December 31st 2030 from our global supply chains with high priority ... on this basis we have identified our supply chains with high priority. Among them are palm oil, wood, paper, soy, beef ... So-called cut off dates for the specific raw materials are defined according to the market and available certification programmes. The latest cut off date that we accept is 2020 for all relevant raw materials"

"In our recent risk assessment, we examined all high priority supply chains based on their global deforestation risk and relevance in our supply chains. The assessment allowed us to identify ten supply chains that have the highest deforestation-risk within our business: [...] Beef [...] Assessed deforestation-risk of beef in supply chains in 2020 [...] <1% of beef from deforestation-risk regions in South America in 2020."

"As a part of the CMS, whistleblowing systems have been created to receive information on compliance violations within ALDI Nord. Any violations of applicable law and internal rules can be reported through these channels either under a specific name or anonymously. Examples of violations include corruption, unfair competition and unethical behaviour, as well as non-compliance with environmental standards. In Germany, non-compliance with social standards, such as human rights and work safety regulations, may also be reported in this way. The whistleblowing systems are available on the websites for internal and external parties at all times."

"we set clear requirements with regard to working conditions. We oblige our suppliers to comply with the "amfori BSCI" code of conduct (BSCI - Business Social Compliance Initiative). We monitor and evaluate compliance with the help of on-site inspections and audits by independent inspectors. "

"To ensure that our requirements are adhered to, we conduct risk-oriented assessments. In this context, we also carry out random unannounced on-site audits in order to review the available documents and verify compliance with the applicable legal and contractually agreed requirements as well as relevant industry standards [...] We will conduct own audits or commission third parties to perform random audits in order to verify compliance with the requirements laid down in this Animal Welfare Purchasing Policy:"

[Translation] "Our engagement covers our own business operations and relationships as well as the indirect consequences of our actions. From our employees, management, business partners and suppliers we expect that they will respect human rights according to this guideline and ensure that all operations are carried out in accordance with our engagement for human rights ... we see certain human rights aspects as more urgent, because our measures can have a stronger influence on them ... ban on child labour and forced labour ... no discrimination and equal treatment of all employees ... health and safety at the workplace ... right of association and right to collectively bargain... promoting living wages"

"ALDI supports the integration of mechanisms for achieving living wages and living incomes into certification standards. Where certification reaches its limits, ALDI will pursue the following approach in order to increase incomes: 1. Payment of premiums by ALDI to enable smallholders to earn a living income, coupled with responsible purchasing practices such as long-term contracts and risk sharing (for instance through insurances aimed at increasing the resilience of smallholders). 2. Income diversification: Solely paying higher prices could lead to overproduction and increased pressure on ecosystems, which is why ALDI promotes alternative income sources for smallholders and works with trusted partners who enable access to credits, loans, input and training for smallholders"

[Translation] "ALDI recognises and acknowledges that women and girls are among those most affected by human rights violations and that they are still discriminated against and disadvantaged worldwide [...] To address gender inequality and improve working conditions for women, we at ALDI strive for gender equality along our supply chains where it is weakened or at risk. [...] Principles: Ensure a discrimination-free environment and equal pay [...]Combat violence against women and girls"

[Translation] "We request our suppliers to strive for best-practice-approaches throughout the palm oil supply chain as well as to co-operate with those partners verifiably attaching great importance to environmental protection and treating the local community members with respect. With regard to the growing of oil palms, this includes refraining from cultivation on peat soils, protection of areas with High Conservation Value (HCV) and High Carbon Stock (HCS), minimal use of chemical fertilizers, responsible treatment of the natural resource of water, calculation and reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, involvement of the local communities (Free, Prior and Informed Consent, FPIC), protection of workers’ rights and support of smallholder farmers."

[Translation] "We consider certain human rights issues to be more urgent, as our actions could have a greater impact on them. This includes, but is not limited to, the following issues: [...] zero tolerance of, and zero involvement in, threats, intimidation and attacks on human rights defenders and activists"

"ALDI is committed to eliminate deforestation and conversion of natural ecosystems from our high-priority supply chains by 31 December 2030. [...] Our high priority supply chains: Palm oil [...] All measures we are describing in this position statement are applying to our own brand products [...] 100% of palm oil in all food and non-food products RSPO certified (since 2020)."

"An overview of the requirements for suppliers of products containing palm oil: - Active support for the objectives set out by ALDI North through best practice approach - Evidence of RSPO membership - Evidence of RSPO Supply Chain Certification of the last production site including annual audits"

[Translation] "Our goal is to exclude deforestation by December 31st 2030 from our global supply chains with high priority ... on this basis we have identified our supply chains with high priority. Among them are palm oil, wood, paper, soy, beef ... So-called cut off dates for the specific raw materials are defined according to the market and available certification programmes. The latest cut off date that we accept is 2020 for all relevant raw materials"

"in addition to buying certified palm oil ALDI NORD supported an agricultural project at the ivory coast from 2017 to 2021 with the NGO Solidaridad International. The project aimed at promoting good agricultural practices of smallscale farmers ... the project was financed by ALDI and developed in cooperation with Solidaridad. ... We commit to continuing our engagement in the palm oil sector and carrying out one more project to support smallscale farmers"

"In our recent risk assessment, we examined all high priority supply chains based on their global deforestation risk and relevance in our supply chains. The assessment allowed us to identify ten supply chains that have the highest deforestation-risk within our business: • Palm Oil [...] For palm oil, timber and paper products, wood-based packaging, cocoa and bananas, the analysis shows that we have significantly reduced the risk of deforestation in our supply chains: Relevant products are certified by standards that contain robust forest protection criteria. We invest in transparency and engage in sector-wide collaboration initiatives. For these supply chains, we will continue the measures we already have in place and monitor their effectiveness in order to identify possibilities to strengthen them. For palm oil for example, we will increase the transparency in our supply chain to the trader and on the amount of palm oil used in animal feed."

"As a part of the CMS, whistleblowing systems have been created to receive information on compliance violations within ALDI Nord. Any violations of applicable law and internal rules can be reported through these channels either under a specific name or anonymously. Examples of violations include corruption, unfair competition and unethical behaviour, as well as non-compliance with environmental standards. In Germany, non-compliance with social standards, such as human rights and work safety regulations, may also be reported in this way. The whistleblowing systems are available on the websites for internal and external parties at all times."

"ALDI is committed to eliminate deforestation and conversion of natural ecosystems from our high-priority supply chains by 31 December 2030. [...] Our high priority supply chains: Palm oil [...] All measures we are describing in this position statement are applying to our own brand products [...] 100% of palm oil in all food and non-food products RSPO certified (since 2020)." In their 2020 RSPO ACOP report total volume of palm oil is stated to be 30,238 tonnes.

"we set clear requirements with regard to working conditions. We oblige our suppliers to comply with the "amfori BSCI" code of conduct (BSCI - Business Social Compliance Initiative). We monitor and evaluate compliance with the help of on-site inspections and audits by independent inspectors. "

"ALDI North undertakes regular reviews of its targets in the area of sustainable palm oil purchasing and may, where required, formulate additional targets and measures. For the purchasers of ALDI North, the Palm Oil Purchasing Policy and the objectives expressed therein are binding in the implementation of tendering and procurement processes. ALDI North has informed its suppliers of private label products containing palm oil of the content and objectives of the Palm Oil Purchasing Policy. The suppliers of goods containing palm oil are contractually obliged to comply with these requirements upon receipt of orders. ALDI North reserves the right to employ independent institutions to carry out spot checks of its product specifications at the suppliers’ premises."

[Translation] "Our engagement covers our own business operations and relationships as well as the indirect consequences of our actions. From our employees, management, business partners and suppliers we expect that they will respect human rights according to this guideline and ensure that all operations are carried out in accordance with our engagement for human rights ... we see certain human rights aspects as more urgent, because our measures can have a stronger influence on them ... ban on child labour and forced labour ... no discrimination and equal treatment of all employees ... health and safety at the workplace ... right of association and right to collectively bargain... promoting living wages"

"ALDI supports the integration of mechanisms for achieving living wages and living incomes into certification standards. Where certification reaches its limits, ALDI will pursue the following approach in order to increase incomes: 1. Payment of premiums by ALDI to enable smallholders to earn a living income, coupled with responsible purchasing practices such as long-term contracts and risk sharing (for instance through insurances aimed at increasing the resilience of smallholders). 2. Income diversification: Solely paying higher prices could lead to overproduction and increased pressure on ecosystems, which is why ALDI promotes alternative income sources for smallholders and works with trusted partners who enable access to credits, loans, input and training for smallholders”

[Translation] "ALDI recognises and acknowledges that women and girls are among those most affected by human rights violations and that they are still discriminated against and disadvantaged worldwide [...] To address gender inequality and improve working conditions for women, we at ALDI strive for gender equality along our supply chains where it is weakened or at risk. [...] Principles: Ensure a discrimination-free environment and equal pay [...]Combat violence against women and girls"

"Human rights violations are a global issue affecting every economy, industry and sector. We have an important role to play in raising awareness for human rights and working collaboratively with our business partners and other external stakeholders to prevent, mitigate or – where necessary - remediate the adverse impact of our business activities."

[Translation] "We consider certain human rights issues to be more urgent, as our actions could have a greater impact on them. This includes, but is not limited to, the following issues: [...] zero tolerance of, and zero involvement in, threats, intimidation and attacks on human rights defenders and activists"

[Translation] "Our goal is to exclude deforestation by December 31st 2030 from our global supply chains with high priority ... on this basis we have identified our supply chains with high priority. Among them are palm oil, wood, paper, soy, beef ... So-called cut off dates for the specific raw materials are defined according to the market and available certification programmes. The latest cut off date that we accept is 2020 for all relevant raw materials"

"In our recent risk assessment, we examined all high priority supply chains based on their global deforestation risk and relevance in our supply chains. The assessment allowed us to identify ten supply chains that have the highest deforestation-risk within our business: [...] Timber & paper products • Wood-based packaging [...] For palm oil, timber and paper products, wood-based packaging, cocoa and bananas, the analysis shows that we have significantly reduced the risk of deforestation in our supply chains: Relevant products are certified by standards that contain robust forest protection criteria. We invest in transparency and engage in sector-wide collaboration initiatives. For these supply chains, we will continue the measures we already have in place and monitor their effectiveness in order to identify possibilities to strengthen them."

"As a part of the CMS, whistleblowing systems have been created to receive information on compliance violations within ALDI Nord. Any violations of applicable law and internal rules can be reported through these channels either under a specific name or anonymously. Examples of violations include corruption, unfair competition and unethical behaviour, as well as non-compliance with environmental standards. In Germany, non-compliance with social standards, such as human rights and work safety regulations, may also be reported in this way. The whistleblowing systems are available on the websites for internal and external parties at all times."

"we set clear requirements with regard to working conditions. We oblige our suppliers to comply with the "amfori BSCI" code of conduct (BSCI - Business Social Compliance Initiative). We monitor and evaluate compliance with the help of on-site inspections and audits by independent inspectors. "

"We carefully assess the standards we accept as measures to reduce the risk of deforestation and conversion in our supply chains along several criteria, including credibility of a certification, the definition of cut-off dates, independent audits, and control mechanisms."

https://www.aldi-nord.de/content/dam/aldi/germany/corporate/compliance/AN_Human_Rights_Policy_DE.pdf.res/1653663936246/AN_Human_Rights_Policy_DE.pdf

"ALDI supports the integration of mechanisms for achieving living wages and living incomes into certification standards. Where certification reaches its limits, ALDI will pursue the following approach in order to increase incomes: 1. Payment of premiums by ALDI to enable smallholders to earn a living income, coupled with responsible purchasing practices such as long-term contracts and risk sharing (for instance through insurances aimed at increasing the resilience of smallholders). 2. Income diversification: Solely paying higher prices could lead to overproduction and increased pressure on ecosystems, which is why ALDI promotes alternative income sources for smallholders and works with trusted partners who enable access to credits, loans, input and training for smallholders”

[Translation] "ALDI recognises and acknowledges that women and girls are among those most affected by human rights violations and that they are still discriminated against and disadvantaged worldwide [...] To address gender inequality and improve working conditions for women, we at ALDI strive for gender equality along our supply chains where it is weakened or at risk. [...] Principles: Ensure a discrimination-free environment and equal pay [...]Combat violence against women and girls"

[Translation] "We consider certain human rights issues to be more urgent, as our actions could have a greater impact on them. This includes, but is not limited to, the following issues: [...] zero tolerance of, and zero involvement in, threats, intimidation and attacks on human rights defenders and activists"

[Translation] "Our goal is to exclude deforestation by December 31st 2030 from our global supply chains with high priority ... on this basis we have identified our supply chains with high priority. Among them are palm oil, wood, paper, soy, beef ... So-called cut off dates for the specific raw materials are defined according to the market and available certification programmes. The latest cut off date that we accept is 2020 for all relevant raw materials"

"we have been a member of the Retail Soy Group and the Round Table on Responsible Soy Association since 2020"

"In our recent risk assessment, we examined all high priority supply chains based on their global deforestation risk and relevance in our supply chains. The assessment allowed us to identify ten supply chains that have the highest deforestation-risk within our business: [...] Soy"

"As a part of the CMS, whistleblowing systems have been created to receive information on compliance violations within ALDI Nord. Any violations of applicable law and internal rules can be reported through these channels either under a specific name or anonymously. Examples of violations include corruption, unfair competition and unethical behaviour, as well as non-compliance with environmental standards. In Germany, non-compliance with social standards, such as human rights and work safety regulations, may also be reported in this way. The whistleblowing systems are available on the websites for internal and external parties at all times."

In their annual report Aldi North state that they are on track to achieve 100% soy certified to a deforestation-free standard or from deforestation-free origins by the end of 2025. In their 2021 RTRS Annual Report their total soy footprint as 289.355,61 tonnes. Of this 13.642,7 t is RTRS segregated certified. 22.539,4 t is Mass Balance certified. 5.472,8 t has RTRS credits.

"we set clear requirements with regard to working conditions. We oblige our suppliers to comply with the "amfori BSCI" code of conduct (BSCI - Business Social Compliance Initiative). We monitor and evaluate compliance with the help of on-site inspections and audits by independent inspectors. "

"We work closely with our suppliers and are in constant contact to support them in implementing our sustainability requirements and improving sustainable production. [...] Compliance with environmental standards is a prerequisite for our products to obtain one of the many sustainability labels, seals or certificates. [...] Current audits by ALDI Nord or a third party are also looking at environmental issues such as the correct handling of waste in non-food production facilities at existing and new suppliers. [...] The international Corporate Responsibility Quality Assurance (CRQA) department establishes standardized raw materials purchasing policies in consultation with the buying departments and the countries. The CRQA department also coordinates the implementation of the provisions defined in these policies and monitors compliance."

[Translation] "Our engagement covers our own business operations and relationships as well as the indirect consequences of our actions. From our employees, management, business partners and suppliers we expect that they will respect human rights according to this guideline and ensure that all operations are carried out in accordance with our engagement for human rights ... we see certain human rights aspects as more urgent, because our measures can have a stronger influence on them ... ban on child labour and forced labour ... no discrimination and equal treatment of all employees ... health and safety at the workplace ... right of association and right to collectively bargain... promoting living wages"

"ALDI supports the integration of mechanisms for achieving living wages and living incomes into certification standards. Where certification reaches its limits, ALDI will pursue the following approach in order to increase incomes: 1. Payment of premiums by ALDI to enable smallholders to earn a living income, coupled with responsible purchasing practices such as long-term contracts and risk sharing (for instance through insurances aimed at increasing the resilience of smallholders). 2. Income diversification: Solely paying higher prices could lead to overproduction and increased pressure on ecosystems, which is why ALDI promotes alternative income sources for smallholders and works with trusted partners who enable access to credits, loans, input and training for smallholders”

[Translation] "ALDI recognises and acknowledges that women and girls are among those most affected by human rights violations and that they are still discriminated against and disadvantaged worldwide [...] To address gender inequality and improve working conditions for women, we at ALDI strive for gender equality along our supply chains where it is weakened or at risk. [...] Principles: Ensure a discrimination-free environment and equal pay [...]Combat violence against women and girls"

[Translation] "We consider certain human rights issues to be more urgent, as our actions could have a greater impact on them. This includes, but is not limited to, the following issues: [...] zero tolerance of, and zero involvement in, threats, intimidation and attacks on human rights defenders and activists"

"Leather is a high-quality natural material and a durable material for textiles and shoes. But there are various challenges associated with its production ... ALDI Nord has been a member of the Leather Working Group (LWG) since 2015. The aim of the LWG is to make conditions in tanneries and at middlemen more transparent and to bring about sustainable change. This includes ensuring that manufacturers do not use potentially critical substances in leather processing and that water and energy consumption is reduced. In addition, occupational safety is regularly monitored. To this end, the LWG has developed an audit protocol for sustainable and responsible leather production and implemented it in more than ten percent of global leather production. Since 2017, only leather from LWG-certified tanneries has been used for all ALDI North articles made of or containing leather components."

"By joining Leather Working Group (LWG) the business groups ALDI Nord and Aldi SÜD take an important step to the sustainable improvement of production standards in leather processing"

"As a part of the CMS, whistleblowing systems have been created to receive information on compliance violations within ALDI Nord. Any violations of applicable law and internal rules can be reported through these channels either under a specific name or anonymously. Examples of violations include corruption, unfair competition and unethical behaviour, as well as non-compliance with environmental standards. In Germany, non-compliance with social standards, such as human rights and work safety regulations, may also be reported in this way. The whistleblowing systems are available on the websites for internal and external parties at all times."

"we set clear requirements with regard to working conditions. We oblige our suppliers to comply with the "amfori BSCI" code of conduct (BSCI - Business Social Compliance Initiative). We monitor and evaluate compliance with the help of on-site inspections and audits by independent inspectors. "

"We work closely with our suppliers and are in constant contact to support them in implementing our sustainability requirements and improving sustainable production. [...] Compliance with environmental standards is a prerequisite for our products to obtain one of the many sustainability labels, seals or certificates. [...] Current audits by ALDI Nord or a third party are also looking at environmental issues such as the correct handling of waste in non-food production facilities at existing and new suppliers. [...] The international Corporate Responsibility Quality Assurance (CRQA) department establishes standardized raw materials purchasing policies in consultation with the buying departments and the countries. The CRQA department also coordinates the implementation of the provisions defined in these policies and monitors compliance."

[Translation] "Our engagement covers our own business operations and relationships as well as the indirect consequences of our actions. From our employees, management, business partners and suppliers we expect that they will respect human rights according to this guideline and ensure that all operations are carried out in accordance with our engagement for human rights ... we see certain human rights aspects as more urgent, because our measures can have a stronger influence on them ... ban on child labour and forced labour ... no discrimination and equal treatment of all employees ... health and safety at the workplace ... right of association and right to collectively bargain... promoting living wages"

"ALDI supports the integration of mechanisms for achieving living wages and living incomes into certification standards. Where certification reaches its limits, ALDI will pursue the following approach in order to increase incomes: 1. Payment of premiums by ALDI to enable smallholders to earn a living income, coupled with responsible purchasing practices such as long-term contracts and risk sharing (for instance through insurances aimed at increasing the resilience of smallholders). 2. Income diversification: Solely paying higher prices could lead to overproduction and increased pressure on ecosystems, which is why ALDI promotes alternative income sources for smallholders and works with trusted partners who enable access to credits, loans, input and training for smallholders”

[Translation] "ALDI recognises and acknowledges that women and girls are among those most affected by human rights violations and that they are still discriminated against and disadvantaged worldwide [...] To address gender inequality and improve working conditions for women, we at ALDI strive for gender equality along our supply chains where it is weakened or at risk. [...] Principles: Ensure a discrimination-free environment and equal pay [...]Combat violence against women and girls"

"Human rights violations are a global issue affecting every economy, industry and sector. We have an important role to play in raising awareness for human rights and working collaboratively with our business partners and other external stakeholders to prevent, mitigate or – where necessary - remediate the adverse impact of our business activities."

[Translation] "We consider certain human rights issues to be more urgent, as our actions could have a greater impact on them. This includes, but is not limited to, the following issues: [...] zero tolerance of, and zero involvement in, threats, intimidation and attacks on human rights defenders and activists"

[Translation] "Our goal is to exclude deforestation by December 31st 2030 from our global supply chains with high priority ... on this basis we have identified our supply chains with high priority. Among them are palm oil, wood, paper, soy, beef ... So-called cut off dates for the specific raw materials are defined according to the market and available certification programmes. The latest cut off date that we accept is 2020 for all relevant raw materials"

"In our recent risk assessment, we examined all high priority supply chains based on their global deforestation risk and relevance in our supply chains. The assessment allowed us to identify ten supply chains that have the highest deforestation-risk within our business: [...] Timber & paper products • Wood-based packaging [...] For palm oil, timber and paper products, wood-based packaging, cocoa and bananas, the analysis shows that we have significantly reduced the risk of deforestation in our supply chains: Relevant products are certified by standards that contain robust forest protection criteria. We invest in transparency and engage in sector-wide collaboration initiatives. For these supply chains, we will continue the measures we already have in place and monitor their effectiveness in order to identify possibilities to strengthen them."

"As a part of the CMS, whistleblowing systems have been created to receive information on compliance violations within ALDI Nord. Any violations of applicable law and internal rules can be reported through these channels either under a specific name or anonymously. Examples of violations include corruption, unfair competition and unethical behaviour, as well as non-compliance with environmental standards. In Germany, non-compliance with social standards, such as human rights and work safety regulations, may also be reported in this way. The whistleblowing systems are available on the websites for internal and external parties at all times."

"we set clear requirements with regard to working conditions. We oblige our suppliers to comply with the "amfori BSCI" code of conduct (BSCI - Business Social Compliance Initiative). We monitor and evaluate compliance with the help of on-site inspections and audits by independent inspectors. "

"We carefully assess the standards we accept as measures to reduce the risk of deforestation and conversion in our supply chains along several criteria, including credibility of a certification, the definition of cut-off dates, independent audits, and control mechanisms"