Suppliers
We want everyone to feel good about the products we sell, which is why we put a lot of work into our supplier relationships and those relationships that reach beyond ours.
Building good relationships
We want everyone to feel good about the products we sell, which is why we put a lot of work into our supplier relationships – and those relationships that reach beyond ours. There are about 5.6 million people working for companies that directly supply IKEA around the world, and we want to be sure they are all treated fairly.
That’s why IWAY, the IKEA supplier code of conduct, was launched in 2000. IKEA suppliers are responsible for communicating IWAY to their sub-suppliers, and IKEA is supporting them in doing this. All suppliers must comply with IWAY requirements, otherwise they are phased out.
What is the IWAY standard?
The IKEA supplier code of conduct, the IWAY Standard, plays an important role in positive developments. It specifies minimum requirements relating to the environment, social impact and working conditions.
Suppliers are also required to perform audits of their own suppliers.
The IWAY Standard requirements include:
• Prevention of child labour and support for young workers
• Protection against forced or bonded labour
• Right to non-discrimination
• Right to freedom of association
• At least minimum wages and overtime compensation
• A safe and healthy work environment, preventing pollution to air, ground and water and work to reduce energy consumption.
Not just your ordinary rug
The TÅNUM rag rug is a great example of how we can bring together two of our core passions – reducing waste and creating a better everyday life. TÅNUM is made from leftover materials from the production of our fabric and quilt covers, and therefore no two rugs are alike. It’s also the kind of staple piece that has been around in Swedish homes for about 150 years.
The idea for the design came from young Finnish design student, Erik Bertell, who wanted to reinvent the rug in a more modern way. But, some great ideas don’t just stop there; they go a step further. Not only is the production of TÅNUM responsibly turning waste into a resource; skilled craftswomen in Bangladesh weave them. This provides the women with jobs and a stable income. Watch the video for the full story about TÅNUM rug.