Disclosure: California Transparency in Supply Chains Act

Effective January 1, 2012, the California Transparency in Supply Chains Act of 2010 requires retailers and manufacturers doing business in California to disclose efforts to eradicate slavery and human trafficking from its direct supply chain. The following is KIND’s disclosure under the Act.

KIND was founded on the belief that there is more to business than just profit, and our mission is to make the world a little kinder, one snack and one act at a time. As such, the company has zero tolerance for slavery and human trafficking within our supply chain and believes that no individual should be deprived of basic needs and fundamental rights. It is unacceptable for any child, forced, or trafficked labor to be used in the production of KIND snacks or any other product. We observe all human trafficking and slavery laws wherever we do business, and expect our suppliers to do the same.

Risk Assessments
KIND regularly assesses our operational strategies to ensure we’re living up to our commitment to create a kinder world. We continue to improve upon current risk assessment processes and protocols, placing a particular focus on managing ingredients and regions where there are known risks.

Currently, all KIND suppliers undergo a rigorous qualification process. We elect to work only with partners who have demonstrated that they share our values – including a commitment to social responsibility and high ethical standards. We require suppliers to be fully compliant with all domestic and internationally recognized standards, specifically related to working conditions and wages, and expect all partners to conduct business in strict compliance with the letter and the spirit of the law. Additionally, we require suppliers to adhere to our Supplier Code of Conduct as a way of ensuring our standards are recognized and upheld.

Auditing
It is KIND’s policy to partner only with suppliers who meet our high commitment to social responsibility, quality and food safety. Suppliers are required to demonstrate alignment with our Supplier Code of Conduct, and are expected to acknowledge these terms on a yearly basis. We also work with independent third parties to conduct supplier audits and ensure compliance.

Certification Requirements
We are in the process of requiring all KIND partners and direct suppliers to certify that they meet our high standards as well as any laws in their respective countries related to slavery and human trafficking. For any supplier identified as non-compliant, we will partner to help them achieve compliance as quickly as possible. If compliance cannot be achieved in a timely manner, we reserve the right to terminate the relationship.

Internal Accountability
As a purpose-driven brand, KIND is deeply committed to maintaining a socially responsible workplace. All team members are required to adhere to our Code of Ethics, which includes a commitment to following the letter and the spirit of the law as well as conducting business with the highest ethical standards. Violations of this Code by full- or part-time team members will result in disciplinary actions that may include termination.

Procurement Training
Team members are expected to adhere to the company’s strict ethical practices, especially as it relates to supply chain management. Robust internal training programs that crystallize expectations and underscore best-practices continue to be developed.