Dec 1999, Reactie van gap op de protestbrieven van deze zomer

Reaction from GAP on our protestletter

Hieronder de reactie van GAP op de protestbrieven van deze zomer

12-1999

Gap Inc.
Gap
Banana Republic Old Navy

Thank you for expressing an interest in our sourcing practices. Gap Inc. sources merchandise with over 1,500 factories operated by 500 vendors in more than 50 countries -- a widespread network that enables us to provide the best quality and value for our customers.

The subject of human rights is an urgent and ongoing concern at Gap lnc. We work hard every day to resolve rnanufacturing-related concerns raised by interested parties, including customers, religious groups, government and non-government organizations, and human rights groups. We view sourcing compliance as an evolutionary process -- one requiring continual reassessment and improvement to remain effective -- and we are committed to making it work.

To help us manage such a widespread global sourcing operation, we drafted a "Code of Vendor Conduct" in 1993. Over the years, it has been improved, updated and strengthened three times, most recently in 1996. Gap lnc.'s "Code of Vendor Conduct" is designed to ensure that our business partners operate ethically and that our merchandise is produced under appropriate conditions -- in the United States and around the world

Here are some key provisions of our "Code:"

We do not do business with vendors who employ workers under the age of 14 or under the compulsory school age or legal working age -- whichever is greater.
We do not do business with vendors who use prison, indentured or forced labor.
We do not do business with vendors who fail to treat workers with dignity, or who fail to maintain a safe and healthy work environment.
We do not do business with vendors who fail to comply with local laws and industry standards regarding wages and hours.

Before placing orders with a vendor, we perform a rigorous initial factory evaluation that addresses the tenets of our "Code of Vendor Conduct." Gap lnc. will not do business with vendors who refuse to abide by our "Code," and we make clear that compromising the letter or spirit of the "Code" will result in serious consequences -- up to and including termination of orders and any future business dealings. To assist in monitoring vendors, Gap lnc. Vendor Compliance Officers and other personnel visit factories and perform inspections on a regular and unannounced basis.

For your information, we are enclosing a copy of our "Code of Vendor Conduct."

Thank you.