Töpfer GmbH ensures the implementation of social minimum standards within its own company and in its business relationships with partners. On this basis, Töpfer GmbH has developed its own Code of Conduct with the aim of improving social minimum standards among its business partners in different countries. These minimum standards form an essential basis for the business relationships of Töpfer GmbH with its partners.

1. Compliance with Regulations

a. The applicable legal and regulatory provisions, as well as the company’s rules and regulations, must be observed.

b. Accident prevention regulations and generally accepted safety and occupational health rules must be complied with.

c. Food products must comply with the applicable food law requirements in terms of composition, quality, packaging, and labeling, and must also meet the specified requirements.

d. Business partners must ensure that these rights are also observed by their upstream suppliers.

2. Human Rights and Social Responsibility

The basis is formed by the fundamental principles of the ILO (International Labour Organization), the Universal Declaration of Human Rights of the United Nations, and the UN Conventions on the Rights of the Child.

Respect for human rights is, for us, a fundamental principle of human coexistence; therefore, all employment relationships and conditions must comply with these standards. As a prerequisite for every business relationship, our suppliers and service providers, as well as their sub-suppliers and subcontractors, agree to comply with the following conditions regarding social standards, as fundamental rights of employees.



3. Prohibition of Forced and Child Labor

a. Child labor, particularly exploitative child labor, is prohibited.

b. Young employees must receive special protection.

c. Forced labor, corporal punishment, or psychological coercion is prohibited.

4. Fair Working Conditions

a. Freedom of association and the right to collective bargaining must be ensured.

b. There must be no discrimination, e.g., based on nationality, ethnic origin, skin color, religion, gender, or age.

c. Regulated working hours, at least in accordance with the legal requirements of the respective country, are mandatory.

d. Safe and as health-compatible as possible working conditions must be ensured.

5. Business Integrity / Compliance

Bribery, corruption, and extortion in all forms are strictly rejected.



6. Environment

a. The supplier or service provider undertakes to comply with the applicable environmental protection regulations in their country.

b. Environmentally friendly technologies and products are to be preferentially used and their use continuously developed further.

c. Employees must be informed about the handling of hazardous materials and substances.

7. Sustainability

Sustainability has always been of great importance to Töpfer GmbH. Our business partners also commit to establishing and further developing sustainability within their corporate culture.

8. Animal Welfare and Biodiversity

a. Business partners commit to complying with animal welfare regulations. The well-being of every single animal must be ensured, and animal health must be promoted.

b. No animal testing is carried out.

c. Business partners promote biodiversity within their capabilities, thereby contributing to the preservation and restoration of local species diversity.

9. Compliance with the Code of Conduct

a. Inspections, including unannounced ones, may be carried out by Töpfer GmbH at any time throughout the entire supply chain.

b. An internal reporting system for violations of these social standards must be established; employees who report violations must not be disciplined or disadvantaged as a result.

c. Business partners accept this Code of Conduct with each acceptance of an order.