WRAP

Worldwide Responsible Accredited Production (WRAP) is a globally recognized, independent, non-profit organization dedicated to promoting safe, lawful, humane, and ethical manufacturing practices around the world. WRAP certifies factories that comply with its 12 Principles, which encompass a wide range of social and environmental standards.

Mission and Vision

Mission: To promote socially responsible, sustainable, and ethical manufacturing practices globally. Vision: To be the world’s leading advocate for manufacturing practices that ensure workplace compliance with social and environmental standards.

History

WRAP was established in 2000 in response to increasing consumer and regulatory demands for better social and environmental responsibility in manufacturing. It was founded by the American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA) but has since grown to cover a broad range of industries.

Key Components

1. 12 Principles of WRAP

   • WRAP's certification is based on 12 Principles that cover areas such as labor rights, health and safety, environmental practices, and ethical business operations. These principles are:
     1. Compliance with Laws and Workplace Regulations
     2. Prohibition of Forced Labor
     3. Prohibition of Child Labor
     4. Prohibition of Harassment or Abuse
     5. Compensation and Benefits
     6. Hours of Work
     7. Prohibition of Discrimination
     8. Health and Safety
     9. Freedom of Association and Collective Bargaining
     10. Environment
     11. Customs Compliance
     12. Security

2. Certification Process

   • Application: Factories apply for WRAP certification and commit to following the 12 Principles.
   • Pre-Audit Self-Assessment: Factories perform a self-assessment to identify potential issues before the formal audit.
   • Audit: Accredited monitoring partners conduct on-site audits to ensure compliance.
   • Corrective Actions: Factories must address any non-compliance issues identified during the audit.
   • Certification: WRAP issues certification for six months to two years based on the level of compliance.
   • Re-Audit and Continuous Monitoring: Factories undergo periodic re-audits to maintain certification.

3. Global Reach

   • WRAP certifies factories worldwide, ensuring that manufacturers adhere to ethical standards regardless of location. Its certification is recognized by major global brands and retailers.

4. Training and Education

   • WRAP provides training programs and resources to help factories understand and implement the 12 Principles. This includes workshops, webinars, and guidance documents.

5. Industry Focus

   • Initially focused on apparel, footwear, and sewn products, WRAP has expanded to cover a wide range of manufacturing sectors, making its principles applicable across various industries.

Benefits of WRAP Certification

1. Market Access

   • WRAP certification enhances a factory's credibility and attractiveness to global brands and retailers that require adherence to ethical standards.

2. Risk Management

   • Reduces the risk of labor disputes, legal issues, and reputational damage by ensuring compliance with labor laws and ethical practices.

3. Operational Efficiency

   • Promotes efficient, safe, and humane workplace practices, leading to improved productivity and employee morale.

4. Brand Reputation

   • Demonstrates a commitment to social responsibility and ethical manufacturing, enhancing the brand’s reputation among consumers and stakeholders.

5. Continuous Improvement

   • Encourages ongoing assessment and improvement of workplace conditions, fostering a culture of continuous improvement within certified facilities.

The WRAP Certification Tiers

WRAP offers three levels of certification based on the factory’s compliance and the results of the audit:

1. Platinum Certification

   • Valid for two years. Awarded to facilities with three consecutive Gold certifications.

2. Gold Certification

   • Valid for one year. Awarded to facilities that have demonstrated full compliance with WRAP's 12 Principles.

3. Silver Certification

   • Valid for six months. Given to facilities that show substantial compliance but require minor improvements.

The Role of WRAP in Global Supply Chains

WRAP plays a crucial role in ensuring ethical manufacturing practices across global supply chains. By certifying factories that adhere to high standards, WRAP helps brands and retailers mitigate risks related to labor violations and environmental non-compliance. Its certification serves as a benchmark for socially responsible manufacturing, fostering trust and transparency between manufacturers, brands, and consumers.

Conclusion

WRAP is a key player in promoting and certifying responsible manufacturing practices worldwide. Its comprehensive certification process, based on the 12 Principles, helps ensure that factories operate ethically and in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations. By achieving WRAP certification, manufacturers can improve their market access, manage risks, enhance operational efficiency, and strengthen their brand reputation, all while contributing to the global movement towards more responsible and sustainable manufacturing practices.

• WRAP's certification is based on its 12 Principles, which encompass a wide range of labor and environmental standards. These principles align with international workplace standards and local laws.
• Primarily targets the apparel, footwear, and sewn products industries, but its principles and certification processes can apply to a broad range of manufacturing sectors.
• WRAP operates on a global scale, certifying factories worldwide to ensure compliance with its principles, regardless of geographic location.
• Factories undergo rigorous auditing by accredited monitoring partners to ensure they meet WRAP’s 12 Principles. The certification process involves regular audits and continuous monitoring.
• Provide a safe and healthy working environment, taking proactive measures to prevent accidents and injury.