Policy statement on social responsibility and sustainability

The CHARLE – premium haberdashery brand stands for elastic and non-elastic organic ribbons that are developed in Germany and produced in Austria. We use certified organic cotton (kbA), TENCEL^TM Lyocell and natural rubber (REACH, OEKO-TEX Standard 100, FSC) to manufacture our ribbons.

We have a partnership-based relationship with our producers, suppliers and customers, built on mutual trust.

When sourcing our raw materials and other materials, we ensure that transport distances are as short as possible. Harmony between people, nature and the environment is a matter close to our hearts.

As a young, independent family business, it has been a matter of course for us from the very beginning to assume social and ecological responsibility towards society. We therefore act in accordance with the United Nations (UN) Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights and the OECD Guidelines for Responsible Business Conduct. In doing so, we are committed to a holistic understanding of corporate responsibility that encompasses human rights, the environment, labour and social standards, responsible corporate governance, fair competition practices and transparency.

Our guide to a future fit for our grandchildren is the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which were adopted in a global future agreement. In particular, we are pursuing the following six goals.

In accordance with the principles of the UN Global Compact, we oppose all forms of forced labour and child labour. Through our membership in Fair Rubber e. V., we pursue the goal of improving the working and living conditions of primary producers of natural rubber through the practical implementation of fair trade principles and supporting environmentally friendly production.

We reject any form of discrimination against employees and applicants and promote a working environment characterised by respect, equal treatment and diversity.

Protecting resources and the environment is important to us throughout the entire value chain. When sourcing materials, we make sure that transport distances are short. Our cotton comes from the Aegean region (Turkey), TENCEL^TM Lyocell from Austria, and rubber trees (Hevea Brasiliensis) only grow on the equator. Our rubber threads from Malaysia have the longest journey to us. We strive to continuously reduce our carbon footprint, among other things by supporting a privately organised reforestation project in the Frankenwald and by making carbon offsets for transport.

Our production is geared towards waste prevention; we don't even need a commercial waste bin.

Our Austrian production facilities use renewable energies – water and heat from our own power plants and photovoltaics. Our Berlin studio uses 100% green electricity generated in Germany.

We consistently pay attention to resource conservation and support the circular economy concept, in line with the OECD Guidelines for Sustainable Production and Consumption.

We expressly oppose any form of corruption, extortion and bribery in our dealings with our business partners, suppliers, customers and employees.

We are committed to transparency, fair business practices and a corporate culture based on integrity and trust.

As an owner-managed company, we see management not only as the control of economic processes, but also as a responsibility towards people. We run CHARLE with the aim of promoting fair working conditions, opportunities for participation and respectful cooperation – both internally and along our value chain.

We cultivate an open, appreciative communication culture that strengthens trust, initiative and personal development. We make decisions transparently and on the basis of dialogue and cooperation.

In our supplier relationships, we ensure that our partner companies also adhere to minimum social standards. We prefer long-term, cooperative partnerships based on fairness, reliability and shared responsibility.

In addition, we promote work-life balance, diversity and equal opportunities. Our leadership is guided by the principles of sustainability, humanity and integrity – for a working environment that combines economic success with social awareness.

If you have any questions, suggestions or complaints relating to social responsibility and human rights, please contact us at: ethics@premium-haberdashery.de

All messages received will be treated confidentially and processed within 14 days using a transparent procedure.