Sustainable procurement

Our Policy

1. Purpose

This policy sets out our commitment to sustainable procurement and outlines the principles and guidelines we follow when sourcing products and services. As a business that designs and constructs immersive trade show stands both in the UK and overseas, we recognise our responsibility to minimise environmental impact, promote ethical practices, and contribute positively to local and global communities.

 

2. Scope

This policy applies to all procurement activities conducted by Evolve including the sourcing of materials, services, and labour, both within the UK and overseas. It applies to all departments, employees, and contractors involved in procurement decisions.

 

3. Our Commitment

We commit to integrating sustainability considerations into every stage of our procurement process. This includes:

  • Environmental responsibility
  • Prioritising products and services with lower environmental impacts across their life cycle
  • Minimising waste and promoting circular economy principles such as reusability, recyclability, and efficient resource use
  • Encouraging the use of sustainably sourced and certified materials (e.g., FSC-certified timber, low-VOC paints)
  • Social and ethical responsibility
  • Ensuring suppliers uphold fair labour practices and human rights, including safe working conditions and fair wages
  • Preferring suppliers who support diversity, equality, and inclusion in their operations
  • Avoiding suppliers with known associations to modern slavery, child labour, or unethical practices
  • Economic responsibility
  • Supporting local economies, wherever possible, by sourcing regionally for UK and overseas projects to reduce transportation impacts
  • Engaging with SMEs and social enterprises where practical
  • Considering whole-life costs and long-term value rather than simply upfront price


 4. Guidelines for Sustainable Procurement

To operationalise our commitments, we will:

  • Include sustainability criteria in all supplier evaluations and tendering processes
  • Require suppliers to demonstrate their sustainability credentials and policies
  • Favour suppliers who demonstrate innovation in sustainable practices, such as reducing packaging or implementing carbon reduction strategies
  • Engage in open dialogue with suppliers to encourage continuous improvement in sustainability performance
  • Monitor supplier compliance with this policy and conduct audits or reviews where necessary
  • Avoid procuring from suppliers that do not meet minimum legal, environmental, or ethical standards

 

5. Supplier Code of Conduct

All suppliers must adhere to our Supplier Code of Conduct, which outlines expected behaviours in relation to environmental stewardship, ethical labour practices, and compliance with relevant legislation and industry standards.

 

6. Governance and Accountability

The Head of Process and Compliance is responsible for implementing this policy, supported by Directors and project managers. All staff involved in purchasing decisions must ensure compliance with the policy.

 

7. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually to ensure it remains effective, relevant, and aligned with current sustainability best practices and business goals. Reviews may also be triggered by significant changes in operations, regulations, or supply chain risks.

 

8. Communication and Training

The policy will be communicated to all employees and made available to current and prospective suppliers. Training will be provided to relevant staff to ensure they understand and are capable of applying the principles of sustainable procurement.