Code of Conduct at Gahrens + Battermann
Bergisch Gladbach, July 2018
We, GAHRENS + BATTERMANN GmbH & Co KG (hereinafter referred to as “G+B”), are a full-service provider in the field of event technology. In our daily work, we place the highest value on the quality of our products and services. At the same time, we want to contribute to the promotion of fair and sustainable standards in the areas of working and social conditions, environmental commitment and customer dialog. Our conduct towards employees, customers, suppliers, competitors and other stakeholders is guided by the values of integrity, fairness, responsibility, openness, trust and appreciation.
As we grow from our experiences every day, this Code of Conduct forms the basis for the continuous improvement of our performance.
Scope of application
This Code of Conduct applies to all G+B locations and business units. At the same time, we also require our suppliers and subcontractors to comply with the principles set out in this Code.
Human and employee rights
We treat all people with respect and fairness and respect fundamental human rights, such as those enshrined in the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the Tripartite Declaration of Principles concerning Multinational Enterprises and Social Policy of the International Labor Organization (ILO) of the United Nations. We do not tolerate forced or child labor, neither at G+B nor at our business partners.
We attach great importance to paying our employees appropriately, providing social benefits and organizing working hours and working conditions fairly and in accordance with applicable laws. We respect the right of our employees to join collective employee representations.
Non-discrimination
Mutual respect forms the basis for a working environment characterized by appreciation. We are committed to protecting the individual in the workplace and maintaining a work environment free from retaliation, discrimination, harassment and other unfair conduct based on gender, age, race, color, ethnic or national origin, citizenship, religion, religious creed, physical or mental disability, veteran status, sexual orientation or any other characteristic protected by law. In all employment decisions including, but not limited to, hiring and promotions, compensation, fringe benefits, training, layoffs and terminations, all employees will be treated strictly on the basis of their abilities and qualifications.
Compliance with antitrust and competition laws
Our business practices are in compliance with applicable antitrust and competition laws and other laws and regulations dealing with, for example, monopolies, unfair competition, restraints of trade and competition, and relationships with competitors and customers. We do not enter into any unlawful agreements with competitors and do not engage in any other activities that could unfairly affect competition. In particular, we refrain from price fixing and market sharing.
Anti-corruption
G+B complies with applicable anti-corruption laws and regulations, including those relating to foreign bribery. We reject all forms of corruption, bribery, theft, embezzlement and extortion. Illegal payments, in particular payments or other benefits to individuals, a company or a public official with the aim of influencing decision-making processes, will not be tolerated. This applies regardless of whether or not applicable laws are violated. Nor do we demand advantages or benefits of value from our business partners for the realization of business opportunities.
Health and environment
We strive to provide all our employees with a safe working environment that promotes accident prevention and minimizes health risks. Protecting the environment and conserving resources is an important aspect of our actions. We therefore go beyond mere compliance with applicable environmental laws and regulations and are committed to conserving resources and protecting the environment to the greatest extent possible.
Data protection, confidential information and intellectual property
Cooperation with our business partners is characterized by reliability and integrity. Therefore, compliance with all applicable data protection laws is a matter of course for us. Confidential business information or trade secrets that come to our attention in connection with business activities with our business partners are kept strictly confidential and are not used or disclosed to third parties in an unauthorized manner. We protect the intellectual property of our business partners as confidential information.
Import and export regulations
Our international business complies with applicable import and export control laws, including but not limited to all sanctions, embargoes and other laws, regulations, government orders and directives relating to the transportation or shipment of goods and technology.