Partnering responsibly, acting sustainably

We hold ourselves and our suppliers to the highest standards, ensuring that every decision reflects our values.

Responsibility extends to every corner of our business – including how we select and work with our suppliers. Our procurement strategy is guided by a commitment to excellence, transparency, and sustainability. We aim to minimise the social, environmental, and ethical impacts of our supply chain while meeting our business needs.

As participants in the UN Global Compact, we align with its core principles on human rights, labour standards, the environment, and anti-corruption. These principles shape our procurement approach and set clear expectations for how we and our suppliers operate responsibly.

Our commitment 

We believe in fostering partnerships that create positive change. Through our Supplier Code of Conduct, we provide guidance on how our suppliers can manage their own supply chains responsibly while ensuring we uphold the same high standards within our firm. These principles prioritise:

• Ethical practices that respect human rights and labour standards.
• Sustainable approaches to minimise environmental impacts.
• Transparent processes that promote accountability and fairness.

Building collaborative relationships

Procurement is more than a transaction—it’s a collaboration. By working closely with our suppliers, we aim to achieve shared goals that benefit not only our businesses but also the communities and environments we touch.

Our selection process is transparent and ensures that the suppliers we work with align with our values. We encourage open dialogue, fostering trust and accountability throughout our supply chain. Together, we can deliver on our commitment to excellence and sustainability.

A shared responsibility

At Freshfields, we recognise that responsible procurement is a shared responsibility. By partnering with like-minded suppliers and holding ourselves to the highest standards, we are driving positive change across our supply chain—helping to build a more sustainable and equitable future.