Leveraging Supply Chains
Integrating refugees into supply chains
Companies can encourage their suppliers and vendors to hire refugees, or commit to sourcing from businesses which employ refugees.
This may be especially relevant for companies who have suppliers in large refugee-hosting countries, such as Turkey and Colombia. In these markets, refugees often face increased barriers to work - and are more vulnerable to forced labor - making it even more critical for companies to take proactive efforts to advance refugees’ economic integration.
Supply Chain
H&M works with 20 suppliers employing about 500 refugees. By 2025, H&M has committed to doubling the number of suppliers it works with on this effort from 20 to 40, to create jobs for at least 2,000 refugees in Turkey.
Hiring & Training
IKEA is providing employment opportunities for both refugees and their host communities through its supply chain. IKEA’s suppliers employ Jordanian and refugee women to make hand-woven rugs, textiles and other products. The company started by employing 250 refugees and Jordanians, with a commitment to reach 400 refugee employees. IKEA is already selling these products in five countries, and will scale up to 30 countries by 2022.
Supply Chain
In partnership with the Cooperative Porto Alegre in Rogivo, Italy, Levi’s is sourcing a collection of handmade recycled denim products made by refugees and asylum seekers, which are sold in Levi’s stores and online.