26 November 2020

Woolworths has identified 332 Australian fruit and vegetable suppliers within its supply chain where workers are at risk of slave-like conditions, as part of its first-ever review under new modern slavery laws.

And Coles has conceded farms that harvest produce then send it to a packhouse are not covered by its ethical sourcing program.

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Woolworths has reviewed its direct suppliers and the suppliers that supply to them, known as indirect suppliers.

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Berries and citrus had the most sites classed "at risk" of slavery, though grapes had a large number relative to the number of suppliers.

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A spokesperson for Woolworths said "we're committed to identifying and resolving modern slavery risks in our supply chains and will always do the right thing in the interest of workers when potential issues are identified".

They noted Woolworths provides a confidential reporting service in eight languages and sets "clear expectations" for suppliers through its responsible-sourcing policy.

A Coles spokesperson said the company "opposes slavery and worker exploitation in all forms" and understood suppliers often required significant numbers of temporary workers during the harvest period.

The Coles modern slavery statement noted some farms at the start of the supply chain were not covered by their ethical sourcing program. The company's spokesperson pledged Coles would "expand and improve" it.

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The Woolworths spokesperson said transparency was the "core" of its approach and "we know there is more to do, and remain focused on working closely with our suppliers, regulators, industry bodies and unions to drive further improvement in this space".