Modern Slavery Act Policy Statement 2025/2026

Organisational Structure and Supply Chains

YEW is focused on delivering a healthy new 'super natural sparkling water' with bold taste, clarity (no sugar, no sweeteners, no artificial ingredients) in a larger 440ml can size. Our brand operates in the UK where we are committed to maintaining the highest ethical standards across our business and global supply chain.

1.1 In relation to the UK Modern Slavery Act 2015, YEW is committed to:

  • Respecting both the letter and spirit of the law.
  • Upholding high standards of care, diligence, and integrity in all our work and business relationships.
  • Supporting and contributing positively to the communities and environments where we operate.
  • Conducting business relationships with honesty, respect, and transparency.
  • Publishing an annual report that outlines our compliance with modern slavery regulations.

1.2 Our commitment to preventing slavery and human trafficking within our business or supply chain is enacted through our corporate governance processes and our rigorous supplier vetting procedures.

1.3 We recognise our responsibility to identify and address potential or actual human rights impacts linked to the products and services we procure. We require our suppliers to confirm compliance with the UK Modern Slavery Act 2015 and to provide their modern slavery statement, where applicable.

1.4 We apply the principles of the UK Modern Slavery Act 2015 to our operations globally.

Organisational Policies

1.5 YEW operates a zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery and human trafficking, ensuring this stance is reflected across all relevant company policies.

Whistleblowing and Reporting

1.6 We maintain a Whistleblowing Policy accessible to all employees, enabling them to raise concerns, including issues related to modern slavery and human trafficking, through multiple confidential channels.
Supporting Policies 1.7 Our approach is reinforced through complementary policies, including:

  • Our commitment to paying living wages and requiring the same from our suppliers.
  • Our Environmental Policy, which addresses our environmental impact and acknowledges the link between the climate emergency and forced migration.
  • Our Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion Policy, promoting respect and individuality across our team and partners.
  • Our Anti-Bribery and Corruption Policy, setting clear expectations for ethical conduct within YEW and across our supply chain.
  • Our Health and Safety Policy, prioritising the well-being of our employees and providing support through our Employee Assistance Programme.
  • Our Social Value Policy, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and contributing positively to the communities we engage with.

Supplier Management and Compliance

1.8 YEW thoroughly vets suppliers to ensure compliance with the UK Modern Slavery Act 2015. Our supplier approval process evaluates potential suppliers' business activities and their adherence to ethical standards.

1.9 We require suppliers to sign our Code of Conduct, which mandates compliance with the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) and the principles of the UK Modern Slavery Act 2015.

Risk Assessment and Due Diligence

1.10 We conduct annual risk assessments to evaluate and mitigate the risk of modern slavery within our supply chain. Our supplier processes are reviewed regularly to ensure ongoing compliance.

Performance Indicators

1.11 We set clear objectives to support our zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery, including compliance training for all staff and maintaining transparent governance practices.

Training and Awareness

1.12 All YEW employees receive training on modern slavery and human trafficking to ensure a thorough understanding of the legislation, high-risk sectors, and our zero-tolerance policy.

Summary of Actions

1.13 In 2024/25, YEW is committed to:

  • Enhancing supplier vetting and compliance processes.
    Continuing modern slavery awareness training for relevant employees.
    Expanding our Social Value initiatives to contribute positively to society.

This statement is made pursuant to section 54(1) of the Modern Slavery Act 2015 and constitutes YEW’s slavery and human trafficking statement for the financial year ending 31 March 2026.

Signed: Francesca Zampi Co-Founder, YEW Date: 15 December 2024