Supplier Code of Conduct in the UK: Local Implementation, Social Impact, and Regulatory Compliance

Setting the Standard for Responsible Business in the UK

At Publicis Sapient, responsible business is not just a global ambition—it is a local commitment. Our Supplier Code of Conduct is the foundation of our approach to ethical partnerships, ensuring that every supplier, partner, and affiliate in the UK upholds the highest standards of integrity, human rights, and environmental stewardship. This page details how our global standards are implemented and monitored within the UK, with a focus on local supplier engagement, compliance with the UK Modern Slavery Act, and unique social impact initiatives such as the ‘Sending Machine’ project. We also outline our onboarding, due diligence, and audit processes for UK suppliers, as well as our approach to payment practices and gender pay gap transparency.

Local Implementation: From Onboarding to Ongoing Monitoring

Supplier Onboarding and Acknowledgement

All new suppliers in the UK are required to read and acknowledge our Supplier Code of Conduct as part of the onboarding process. This ensures a shared understanding of our expectations from the outset. The Code sets out clear, non-negotiable standards, including the prohibition of forced, bonded, or involuntary labour, child labour, and discrimination, as well as requirements for safe working conditions and respect for human rights.

Due Diligence and Risk Assessment

During the tendering process, suppliers complete a self-assessment questionnaire covering human rights, labour, and environmental practices. High-risk suppliers—such as those operating outside the UK or EEA, or employing temporary low-skilled workers—undergo enhanced due diligence, including detailed reviews and feedback to address any concerns. Only suppliers who demonstrate a commitment to our standards progress to the final selection stage.

Ongoing Monitoring and Auditing

Supplier compliance is not a one-time check. We use platforms like EcoVadis to audit suppliers’ corporate social responsibility performance, including health and safety, environmental stewardship, and ethical conduct. Annual audits by our legal, procurement, and internal audit teams ensure ongoing compliance and continuous improvement. Suppliers are also required to annually certify their understanding and compliance with our Code and the UK Modern Slavery Act.

Reporting and Remediation

We maintain confidential channels for reporting concerns, and all reports are investigated promptly. Whistleblowers are protected from retaliation, and in cases of material breach, we reserve the right to terminate business relationships to protect the integrity of our supply chain.

Compliance with the UK Modern Slavery Act

Operating in the UK means upholding the highest standards of ethical conduct. Publicis Sapient is fully committed to the principles of the UK Modern Slavery Act. We publish annual Modern Slavery Statements, outlining the steps we take to prevent forced labour, human trafficking, and exploitation within our operations and supply chains. Our approach includes:

Social Impact: The ‘Sending Machine’ Project

Our commitment to social value is exemplified by the ‘Sending Machine’—a contactless donation device designed to support food banks in the UK. Unlike traditional donation points, the Sending Machine enables people to donate exactly what food banks need on any given day, ensuring that contributions are timely and relevant. This innovation bridges the gap between community generosity and real-time needs, helping to combat food insecurity in a practical, scalable way. The Sending Machine demonstrates how technology can be harnessed to address pressing social challenges and deliver measurable impact at the local level.

Local Supplier Engagement and Payment Practices

We are committed to fair and transparent engagement with local suppliers. Our standard payment terms are 30 days from invoice, and we resolve any payment disputes promptly through our Accounts Payable team. We do not charge suppliers for remaining on our supplier list, nor do we offer supply chain finance or e-invoicing at this time. This approach is designed to foster trust and reliability in our supplier relationships, supporting the health of the UK’s business ecosystem.

Gender Pay Gap Transparency

Transparency and equity are core to our values. Publicis Sapient publishes a UK Gender Pay Gap Report, providing clear data on pay equity and outlining our ongoing efforts to close the gap. We believe that a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace is essential for innovation and long-term success. Our leadership is dedicated to fostering an environment where all employees can thrive, and we hold ourselves accountable through regular reporting and continuous improvement.

Why Choose Publicis Sapient for Responsible Digital Transformation?

Connect with Us

If your organization is seeking a partner for purpose-driven digital transformation—one that combines innovation with a steadfast commitment to social impact and responsible business—Publicis Sapient is ready to help. Visit our London office at Turnmills, 63 Turnmill Street, EC1M 5RR, or contact our team to start a conversation about your next chapter.

Publicis Sapient: Driving responsible digital transformation for a better UK.