Private Brands/Supplier Compliance
Office Depot's private brand assortment continued to expand in 2008, which meant that more suppliers in more countries were introduced to our company's Supplier Compliance policies and factory inspection programs. This global initiative is designed to enhance the work environment as well as the quality of life in the countries where our products are manufactured.
Initially limited to China, this program now involves Office Depot suppliers in South Korea, India, Vietnam, Portugal, Mexico, Malaysia, Indonesia and other nations. Our goals focus on the prohibition of forced labor and child labor, compliance with local laws and regulations (including those for working hours), requirements for wages and benefits, the development of non–discrimination policies and the guarantee of a safe and healthy working environment.
Factory Inspections 2007 vs. 2008
| 2007 | 2008 | Increase | Total since program inception in 2002 | |
| Total Audits | 387 | 435 | 48 | 1,950 |
| Initial Audits | 133 | 134 | 1 | 884 |
| Follow-Up Audits | 254 | 301 | 47 | 1,066 |
Factory Inspections 2008
| Grade | Initial Audit | Re-Audit | % Change |
| Zero Tolerance | 1.38% | 2.07% | 50% |
| Needs Improvement | 29.43% | 63.45 | 115.60% |
| Satisfactory | 0.00% | 3.68% | 3.68% |