2020 Sustainability Report

21 Employees All employees at Girsberger companies are kept informed about current business trends at a “notice board” meeting roughly every two months. For employees working from home, an online “notice board” was set up so that everyone could be kept equally well informed. Managers also receive quarterly reports giving detailed information about turnover and the number of orders received by the whole group. We raise awareness among our employees about environmental issues by offering tips on helping the environment and telling them about activities in the Smaragd (Emerald) project (part of the EU’s Natura 2000 network). During this reporting period, we focused particularly on reducing waste and litter in general, especially cigarette ends. Newsletters and signs are backed up by appropriate giveaways (such as pocket ashtrays and veggie bags (net bags) from Ocean Care). We organise recreational activities to foster team spirit. Unfortunately during 2020 our planned activities (a skiing weekend, bowling, a barbecue party, monthly meetings for Friday night drinks and finally the end-of-year dinner for the whole workforce) all had to be cancelled because of the coronavirus pan- demic. Employees who are politically active are allowed to fulfil those obligations during working time wherever possible. During the coming two years we will support and encourage employees who take on voluntary commitments. We also intend to continue to develop our health management system, our social involvement and e-mobility. Suppliers Suppliers are divided into categories A, B and C, depending on their importance. The criteria for their classification in- clude social responsibility and environmental considerations. A- and B-suppliers are reassessed every year. The suppliers are told about these assessments. We are in regular contact with A-suppliers. Suppliers in Category A (which includes in particular all suppliers from high-risk regions) have to sign the “Girsberger Group Code of Conduct”. This sets out the main principles and values of the Girsberger Group in terms of complying with current legislation as well as fundamental internationally recognised standards on human rights, employment rights, the environment and corruption. Society (clubs, local authorities, political groups) One of the ways in which Girsberger is in contact with the general public is by active media work, for example regularly sending out media briefings on new products, projects and partnerships, and talking directly to journalists and media representatives. Documents of interest to the general public such as our corporate mission and reports on sustainability, with supplementary reports, are made available on our website www.girsberger.com . Other channels for sharing information and ideas include social media, where Girsberger has an active presence (Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram and Pinterest). We also maintain active partnerships with the local population and community groups in the places where our branches are located. For example, we support clubs by making donations and get involved in environmental, sporting and cultural activities in the local area. We provide financial support for charitable and not-for-profit organisations in Switzerland and elsewhere. “ The most important objective of our work: having customers who are thrilled with what we do. ” From the Girsberger quality commitment