The UK Fashion and Textile Association has introduced a new Code of Conduct template exclusively for its members, designed to help fashion and textile businesses establish comprehensive ethical, social and environmental standards for their operations and supply chains.
- The template serves as a structured starting point for companies to develop tailored codes that reflect their specific values, operations and business relationships.
- UKFT emphasises that this is not a prescriptive, one-size-fits-all document but rather a flexible framework that allows members to shape content according to their organisational priorities.
- The resource aims to help companies strengthen business relationships, mitigate risks and build trust with stakeholders through clearly defined expectations and compliance measures.
WHAT'S AT STAKE: Companies need robust codes of conduct to navigate evolving expectations around sustainability, ethics, responsibility and compliance. The template addresses the vital role these documents play in setting out ethical expectations and working standards that apply to internal teams, business partners and suppliers. Clear ethical frameworks help companies maintain competitive positioning in increasingly demanding market conditions.
- Codes of conduct help mitigate risks by clearly outlining expectations and potential consequences of non-compliance.
- Companies without proper ethical frameworks may struggle to build trust with stakeholders and maintain business relationships.
- The template supports businesses in meeting growing demands for transparency and accountability.
CONTEXT FRAME: This launch reflects UKFT's ongoing commitment to supporting members with practical tools and guidance. The template acknowledges that every company is different and provides flexibility for businesses operating across various countries and markets. Companies can align their codes with internationally recognised standards whilst adapting content to reflect their specific operations and priorities.
- The template highlights common components and best practices used across the industry.
- Companies can shape the content to reflect their organisations' priorities and the countries in which they operate.
- There is no legal requirement in the UK for what a Code of Conduct should look like, but internationally recognised standards are available.
MULTIPLE ASPECTS: The template includes comprehensive guidance covering multiple aspects of ethical business conduct and supply chain management.
- Key clauses and their meanings are explained to help companies understand implementation requirements.
- Suggestions are provided on what to include and define within scope of the code.
- Guidance covers due diligence processes and compliance mechanisms for ongoing monitoring.
- Information on third-party ethical and social audits is included for independent verification.
- Classification types are outlined, ranging from good practice to minor, major, critical and zero tolerance violations.
STRATEGIC SUBTEXT: UKFT's decision to make this template exclusive to members strengthens the value proposition of membership whilst positioning the organisation as an essential resource for navigating industry challenges. The timing supports companies proactively addressing compliance requirements whilst maintaining operational flexibility across different markets and regulatory environments.
KEY TAKEAWAY: The UKFT Code of Conduct template represents a practical response to industry needs for structured ethical guidance. By providing members with a flexible framework that includes key clauses, compliance guidance and audit processes, UKFT helps UK fashion and textile companies develop robust codes that reflect their values and operations. Companies interested in accessing this resource must contact UKFT directly at info@ukft.org.
