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Report 1

• Horana Plantations: Stockholm, Alton - Remain in Ringtons’ supply chain
• Kelani Valley: Pedro, Lover’s Leap, Mahagastotte - Remain in Ringtons’ supply chain
• Maskeliya Plantations: Strathspey, Brunswick, Brownlow, Laxapana - Remain in Ringtons’ supply chain
• Talakawelle Tea Estates: Somerset - No longer sourcing from – last purchase 2017
• Hatton Plantations: Adisham, Vellaioya, Waltrim, Henfold, Dickoya - Remain in Ringtons’ supply chain
• Bogawantalawa Tea Estates: Campion, Kotiyagala, Bridwell, Wanarajah, Norwood - Remain in Ringtons’ supply chain

Report 2

• Nalani Tea Estate - No longer sourcing from – last purchase 2016

Report 3

• Horana Plantations: Alton - Remain in Ringtons’ supply chain
• Hatton Plantations: Vellaioya - Remain in Ringtons’ supply chain

Were you previously aware of these allegations?

We were not aware of the allegations.

How does Ringtons plan to respond to each allegation (including any plans to investigate or remedy the issue)?

We have contacted all suppliers named in these allegations.

Report 1

All suppliers have confirmed that they complied with the Wage Board Ordinance Notification of the 5th March 2021, and paid the minimum daily wage of Rs 1,000 per day from this date.

Report 2

We are no longer sourcing from this producer/estate.

Report 3

We have reviewed copies of our supplier’s Freedom of Association Policies, Grievance Mechanisms, and sections of the Collective Bargaining Agreements regarding Disciplinary Action and Grievance Dispute Procedures.

How does Ringtons ensure that workers in its tea supply chain receive a fair wage

Ringtons require all suppliers pay their employees the national legal standard as minimum. We are aware of a recent Living Wage Study (September 2022) conducted by a local NGO in Sri Lanka. The minimum daily wage of Rs 1,000 per day is below the calculated Living Wage in this study...we recognise that wage issues in supply chains are complex; they arecaused by a multitude of factors and cannot be addressed by one stakeholder alone. We adopt responsible business practices through our long-term supplier relationships. We take heed of Responsible Purchasing guidance from the Ethical Trading Initiative and Ethical Tea Partnership and are appraising how we can improve. Collaborative industry action is vital in enabling living wages to be paid.

How does Ringtons ensure that freedom of association and collective bargaining rights are respected in its tea supply chain, and that workers are not penalised for union membership or participation in industrial action?

Suppliers of Ringtons are asked to commit to Ringtons Ethical Trade & Human Rights Policy, which includes: “Freedom of association and the right to collective bargaining are respected”. Considering the reports shared by BHRRC, we have reviewed our supplier’s Freedom of Association policies and Collective Bargaining Agreements in force.

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