Suppliers
Supplier expectations
We participate in a complex global supply chain, purchasing raw materials, products, and services from companies all over the world. Our suppliers have their own suppliers. Through our policies, processes, and programs, we continually work with suppliers to minimize negative effects on workers, the community, the environment, and natural resources.
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Commitments aligned with our values
3M’s Modern Slavery Statement (PDF, 451 KB) communicates our commitment to acting ethically and with integrity in all our business relationships and to using policies, systems, and controls to prevent human rights issues in our organization and in our supply chains.
Our commitment is also demonstrated in our membership in the United Nations Global Compact, in 3M’s Code of Conduct, and in cooperative efforts to abolish human rights atrocities, especially human trafficking, forced labor, modern slavery, and related crimes. For example, 3M Brazil is a signatory to the National Pact to Eradicate Slave Labor and is an associate of InPACTO — the National Pact Institute for the Eradication of Slave Labor — a trade association committed to the goals of the National Pact and focused exclusively on collaborative efforts among its members.
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3M Supplier Responsibility Code
Our Supplier Responsibility Code (SRC), updated in July 2024 and available in multiple languages, establishes our expectations for suppliers anywhere in the world and for any supplied material or service. The SRC is based on our corporate values for sustainable and responsible operations and aligns with the Ten Principles of the United Nations Global Compact, which we participate in. The SRC is also consistent with the Responsible Business Alliance (RBA) Code of Conduct 8.0, effective January 1, 2024.
Our supplier vetting process includes reviewing SRC expectations and reinforcing that we expect suppliers’ programs and practices, as well as those of their subcontractors, to follow SRC standards. The SRC is a contract provision included in all 3M purchase order terms and conditions. We disqualify new or existing suppliers that are not willing or able to meet our SRC.
SRC training is available online to help new employees or others understand 3M’s SRC expectations, processes, and supporting tools. The training covers our supplier expectations regarding labor and human rights, EHS, ethics, and management systems requirements. In addition, 3M offers online training to select suppliers through the RBA e-Learning Academy.
3M’s Business Partners website provides training materials for suppliers to expand their knowledge on topics such as Ethical Business Conduct, 3M Code of Conduct Acknowledgement, and Human Trafficking Prevention.
