At Thygesen & Birk Fabrics we care about our society, our environment, our colleagues, and our customers. Our main focus above all these areas is respect. Whether we do business, produce, interact, or work – we aim to do it with respect for those involved and for our surroundings.

We have based the content of our CSR policy on the 10 principles of the UN Global Compact and the GOTS standard Social Criteria and GOTS Due Diligence handbook.

Society

We aim to be socially responsible in the countries in which we have our facilities. We aim to create more jobs in these countries and contribute to the economic development in Europe. Our ambition is to become pioneers in bringing production back to Europe and creating a stronger European textile market.

Human Rights

At Thygesen & Birk Fabrics, we respect and support international human rights, including civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights. If a supplier is involved in human rights violations, either directly or indirectly, they must cease immediately.

We respect international law regarding the rights to privacy and personal data for our employees, customers, and collaborators, and we prohibit discrimination.

Employee Relations

Thygesen & Birk Fabrics must provide a safe and healthy work environment for their employees. Employees must be provided with statutory and sufficient safety equipment and receive the necessary training and education to perform their jobs safely.

Colleagues

We aim to treat our colleagues with respect and fairness. Our work environment is free from discrimination, harassment, and stress. We aim to provide a safe workplace, fair salaries, and dedicated colleagues. To ensure these conditions, we provide training courses, extra management, and union-provided contract terms.

Customers

When doing business with our customers, we aim to act professionally and with integrity. We focus on open dialogue and a trustworthy process, so all of our customers feel respected, secure, and satisfied with our work.

Anticorruption

Thygesen & Birk Fabrics does not permit any form of corruption, bribery, or extortion to improperly influence officials, courts, business partners, or others.

Environment

We care about the environment and are aware of the environmental costs of our work. We consider this in our development, production, and transportation processes. We adhere to environmental requirements such as the REACH declaration for SVHC and Oekotex 100. To minimize GHG, we use Clima Compasset with a focus on CO2 emissions and calculate CO2 savings annually.

Work Environment

Thygesen & Birk Fabrics does not use or take advantage of any form of forced or involuntary work. Child labor is forbidden, with a minimum employment age of 15 years. Discrimination or harassment based on gender, national origin, religion, political conviction, age, handicap, sexual orientation, union membership, or any status recognized by international law is prohibited.

Freedom of association and collective bargaining are respected. Working conditions are safe and hygienic, with training and safety signs provided in the local language. Wages and benefits meet at least the national legal standard, and working hours comply with national laws and bargaining agreements. Employment relationships are based on recognized national laws and practices, with grievance redressal information provided before employment.

Environment: Us and Suppliers

Thygesen & Birk Fabrics must be aware of environmental laws and regulations related to our suppliers and our own activities, products, and services. We adhere to regulations and follow the precautionary principle when there is uncertainty regarding environmental consequences. We focus on limiting natural resources, harmful substances, and chemicals, and encourage the use of recycled materials and circular economy practices wherever possible.

Animal Welfare

We care for the sheep involved in worldwide wool production and only buy and offer non-mulesed merino wool. Our suppliers must treat, feed, and care for the animals with dignity and respect, and we do not accept mulesing. Animals must have access to fresh grass, and if they get sick or need to be put down, it must be handled according to recognized veterinary standards.