"New Benchmark Finds M&S, Nestlé, Unilever Leading on Human Rights", 13 Mar 17

The result of a two-year consultation with over 400 companies and organizations, the Corporate Human Rights Benchmark...examines companies’ policies, governance, processes, practices and transparency, as well as how they respond to serious allegations of human rights abuse…BHP Billiton, Marks & Spencer, Rio Tinto, Nestlé, Adidas and Unilever were identified as some of the top performers, while Costco Wholesale, Macy’s, Grupo Mexico and Yum! Brands were among the brands with the lowest scores...Investors are encouraged to use the CHRB’s results in their analysis of companies and investment decision making…Successful companies will have lowered their exposure to potential legal, reputational and financial risks that could arise from human rights abuses.  The ranking also paves the way for governments to use a smart mix of regulation and incentives to enhance transparency and minimum standards of corporate behavior to make the business case for the respect of human rights.  Companies in the middle and lower bands of the Benchmark should demonstrate their respect for human rights and seek to emulate the best practice of industry leaders.