Target statement to concerns raised by Clean Clothes Campaign regarding Menderes Tekstil factory in Turkey
4 June 2009
Business & Human Rights Resource Centre invited Target to respond to the following item:
- "IKEA and Household Retailers Abet Union Busting at Turkish Supplier," Clean Clothes Campaign, 18 May 2009
http://www.cleanclothes.org/ikea-and-household-retailers-abet-union-busting
Target sent this statement:
Target (USA) Response to Clean Clothes Campaign
June 4, 2009
We have had ongoing conversations since early last fall with the International Textile, Garment and Leather Workers Federation (ITGLWF) about the Menderes Tekstil factory in Turkey. Target also engaged in a conversation just two weeks ago with the International Labor Rights Forum about this matter. We have previously and continue to urge the Menderes management to meet with their employees and union officials to resolve this matter.
Target takes this matter seriously and fully investigates all allegations about vendor compliance that are brought to our attention.
Target adheres to strict vendor guidelines and standards that demand high quality products made using ethical and humane practices. If we find that factory workers have been unfairly disciplined for any reason, including wanting to organize, we can take immediate action – up to and including terminating our relationship with the factory.We also have a “No Discrimination” policy, which prohibits workers from being singled out for any reason (including wanting to organize) and from being treated differently.Our unannounced audit process evaluates vendors according to our Standards of Vendor Engagement and our audit process alerts us if these situations occur in the factory.Audits entail employee interviews, management interviews, records and payroll review, and factory rules review.
To reiterate, Target has been involved in this process since we were alerted by the ITGLWF and continue to facilitate communication with both parties, and now with the International Labor Rights Forum.
About Target- US
Minneapolis-based Target Corporation (NYSE:TGT) serves guests at 1,699 stores nationwide and at Target.com. Target is committed to providing a fun and convenient shopping experience with access to unique and highly differentiated products at affordable prices. Since 1946, the corporation has given 5 percent of its income through community grants and programs like Take Charge of Education. Today, that giving equals more than $3 million a week.