BRC members are committed to upholding high standards of welfare for all people who work in their supply chains. UK food retailers are collaborating with European retailers, suppliers, and importers to develop industry solutions to address these existing systemic challenges in Southern Spain. As a group, they fund and support the Spain Ethical Trade Supplier Forums to improve safety and working conditions for farms in Southern Spain, including Almeria.

Retailers are taking several actions to address these issues, including setting standards on water and hygiene facilities through their Supplier Code of Conduct (CoC), setting requirements on accommodation through their company Responsible Sourcing Manual, encouraging growers to work towards the Spanish Ethical Trade Forum (ETF) temporary accommodation guidelines, working in collaboration with multiple stakeholders within the programmes established by the ETF, and conducting due diligence to ensure that standards are met.

UK retailers expect workers in their supply chains to have access to clean, safe water and electricity in their accommodation. They continue to work with key stakeholders across the supply chain to ensure that resources for local communities and environments are safeguarded. Additionally, the Spanish government and municipalities must also play their part in improving access to water and safe accommodation for people in these communities.