The Produce Marketing Association and United Fresh Produce Association are seeking public input on a draft Ethical Charter containing guiding principles and values intended to set a framework for responsible labor practices throughout the global fresh produce and floral supply chains.
“The boards of United Fresh and PMA established a Joint Committee on Responsible Labor Practices last year to address this critical issue for the industry, recognizing the growing interest of stakeholders in transparency throughout the global supply chain,” said United Fresh Chairman Tony Freytag, Crunch Pak Sliced Apples. “The committee’s goal was to ensure that the industry has a clear and well-defined commitment to treat all workers with dignity and respect as they work to bring fresh produce and floral products to consumers. The associations are also seeking to proactively support opportunities for harmonization and convergence of positive efforts across the global fresh produce and floral supply chains.”
Copies of the Ethical Charter and a Terms of Reference document outlining goals and objectives are now available on a joint PMA/United Fresh webpage.
“Our associations now invite all other interested parties to visit their webpage to provide input on several questions, as well as provide any additional perspectives on the Ethical Charter or the associations’ work ahead,” said Cathy Burns, CEO of PMA. Public comments will be accepted through Monday, February 20, 2017.
“Our two associations will be reviewing all comments, and working with the committee to address any major themes and issues identified in the consultation process,” said Tom Stenzel, United Fresh president and CEO. “We also intend to share a report on major themes identified, although individual comments will remain confidential.”
Access www.unitedfresh.org for more details.
