Primark has been working within its supply chains for several years prior to making its commitment public by joining the Ethical Trading Initiative (E.T.I.) www.ethicaltrade.org in May 2006.

Primark defined its Ethical Trade Strategy in 2006. In 2008 we have entered the second phase of its implementation. Implementation of phase 2 will ensure that factories making 80% of all purchases are assessed. 135,120 workers employed in these units have had their working conditions assessed, and improved where necessary.

Audits are conducted by Primark's own regional based Ethical Trade Managers and third party specialist auditors. 38% of our initial audits to date have been unannounced,and the rest take place within a pre agreed window.

After the initial audit our Ethical Trade specialists work with the suppliers to support them through remediation. Training is offered to suppliers and their makers on particular issues and best practise, at regular intervals. Follow-up audits are conducted after 3mths from the initial audit.

Primark has to report on its activity annually to the Ethical Trading Initiative and we have had encouraging feedback on our latest annual report.

We share many of our suppliers with our competitors on the high street. All workers making these goods will be paid the same weekly wage.

All new suppliers are risk assessed prior to supplying their initial orders to Primark.

Primark recognises that shared learning and collaboration is one of the most successful ways to achieve sustained positive progression with its supplier's factories. Primark participate in the ETI- supported National Homeworker Group in India and are one of the founder members of the Wages Group.

• Download our ethical strategy (PDF format 58kb)