Modern Slavery Statement for Poplar Storage

Poplar Storage is committed to conducting business with integrity, transparency, and respect for human rights. This Modern Slavery Statement sets out the steps we take to prevent modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and exploitative working practices within our operations and supply chain. We recognise that modern slavery can affect many sectors, including storage, transport, cleaning, maintenance, and construction. As a responsible business, we maintain a zero-tolerance policy toward any form of slavery or servitude.

Our approach begins with clear governance. Senior management holds responsibility for overseeing anti-slavery measures, ensuring that risks are identified and addressed promptly. All employees are expected to act with honesty, raise concerns in good faith, and comply with the standards set out in our policies. We also expect suppliers, contractors, and business partners to uphold the same principles. By embedding these standards into everyday decision-making, Poplar Storage supports ethical and lawful business conduct across its operations.

We assess potential risks through due diligence when engaging new suppliers and reviewing existing relationships. This includes checking labour practices, recruitment methods, subcontracting arrangements, and evidence of compliance with applicable laws. Where higher risks are identified, we may request additional assurances, documentation, or corrective action plans. If a supplier fails to meet our expectations, we reserve the right to pause, suspend, or end the relationship. These measures help ensure our storage services are not connected to any abusive practice.

Supplier Standards and Monitoring

Poplar Storage requires suppliers to operate in line with our ethical standards. We encourage them to maintain safe working conditions, fair pay, lawful employment, and freedom from coercion. Our procurement teams are trained to identify warning signs, including unusual recruitment fees, restricted worker movement, withheld documents, or unclear subcontracting chains. Such indicators are treated seriously and investigated without delay.

To strengthen oversight, we conduct supplier audits where appropriate. These audits may be announced or unannounced, depending on the risk profile of the supplier and the nature of the service provided. Audits focus on labour standards, payroll records, worker welfare, and compliance with anti-slavery obligations. Where concerns are found, we work with the supplier to implement remediation actions and monitor progress closely. This process reinforces accountability and supports continuous improvement.

We also review contractual terms to ensure suppliers understand their responsibility to prevent modern slavery. Our agreements may include obligations relating to lawful employment, record keeping, cooperation with audits, and immediate reporting of any suspected breach. By using clear contractual expectations, Poplar Storage makes its commitment to ethical sourcing practical and enforceable.

Reporting Channels and Worker Protection

We encourage all workers, contractors, and suppliers to report any suspected case of exploitation or unsafe labour practices. Reports can be made through internal management routes, compliance channels, or designated safeguarding procedures. Concerns are handled confidentially wherever possible and are investigated promptly. No one should fear retaliation for speaking up in good faith; victimisation or intimidation will not be tolerated.

Training and awareness are important parts of our response. Relevant staff receive guidance on recognising signs of exploitation, understanding reporting duties, and responding appropriately when concerns arise. This includes awareness of debt bondage, deception during recruitment, threats, and other forms of coercion. We also encourage a culture in which ethical concerns are treated as shared responsibilities rather than isolated issues.

When a report is raised, we assess the facts carefully and decide on suitable action. This may include employee support, supplier investigation, contract review, or notification to the relevant authorities where required. Our aim is not only to respond to incidents, but also to prevent recurrence. Poplar Storage believes that a strong reporting culture is essential to detecting hidden harm and protecting vulnerable people.

Annual Review and Continuous Improvement

Poplar Storage will review this statement and its supporting controls annually to ensure they remain effective and aligned with legal requirements and business risks. The review considers audit findings, reported concerns, supplier performance, staff training, and any changes in our operations or supply chain. Findings from the review are used to update procedures and strengthen oversight.

We recognise that preventing modern slavery is an ongoing responsibility. No single action can eliminate the risk entirely, but steady improvement, informed monitoring, and responsible partnerships can significantly reduce exposure. Our zero-tolerance policy, supplier audits, and accessible reporting channels work together as part of a wider framework of ethical governance.

Through this statement, Poplar Storage reaffirms its commitment to safeguarding human dignity and promoting lawful, fair, and transparent practices in all areas of business. We will continue to review, improve, and communicate our efforts so that our modern slavery controls remain practical, robust, and effective.