Responsible Supply Chain Management 

 

BJC operates a diverse portfolio of businesses spanning upstream, midstream, and downstream sectors. These operations necessitate collaboration with an extensive network of suppliers and business partners across the supply chain. Any challenges or disruptions involving these partners—such as their inability to deliver goods and services as required or their cessation of operations—could pose significant risks to BJC. Potential impacts include disruptions in production or distribution, a decline in product quality, and an impaired ability to meet consumer demands.

Furthermore, improper or unethical practices by suppliers or partners—such as inadequate corporate governance, environmental irresponsibility, or disregard for social obligations—could harm BJC’s reputation and undermine customer confidence and satisfaction.

Recognizing these risks, BJC places utmost importance on responsible supply chain management as a critical component of its operations. This strategic focus is designed to mitigate disruptions, enhance operational efficiency and transparency, protect the company's reputation, and foster mutually beneficial relationships with its partners. Through these efforts, BJC reaffirms its commitment to building a sustainable future in which communities thrive and no one is left behind.

 

Supply Chain Management Strategy

BJC has developed robust strategies for responsible supply chain management, including:

• Diversifying supplier sources to reduce dependency on single suppliers.
• Leveraging advanced technologies to enhance verification processes and operational transparency.
• Promoting partnerships, particularly with SMEs, through capacity-building initiatives and shared value creation.
• Encouraging suppliers to uphold principles of human rights, reduce environmental impact, and adopt effective management practices.

In alignment with its Supplier Code of Conduct, BJC implements a rigorous supplier selection process, systematically assesses supplier risks and performance, and actively supports suppliers in adopting sustainable and responsible practices in governance, environment, and society.

 

Supply Chain Management Approach

 

BJC is firmly committed to managing its supply chain with the highest standards of efficiency and responsibility to support its long-term sustainable growth objectives. To this end, Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles are fully integrated into BJC’s supply chain management framework. The Board of Directors (BOD) provides governance oversight, with the Sustainable Development Committee (SDC) supervising implementation. Operational execution is carried out by Senior Executives and the Sustainable Development Working Team across all business units.

 

Key initiatives under BJC’s supply chain management framework include:

• Establishing procurement practices aligned with the Supplier Code of Conduct.
• Embedding ESG criteria as a fundamental element in supplier selection and evaluation processes.
• Delivering training programs on sustainable supply chain management for employees and relevant stakeholders.

 

BJC continuously adopts global best practices to improve its supply chain management systems. These efforts ensure alignment with international sustainability standards, strengthen operational excellence, and cultivate long-term partnerships that generate shared value for all stakeholders.

 

 Supplier Code of Conduct

 

BJC has established the Supplier Code of Conduct to align its suppliers’ business practices with BJC’s management guidelines. All suppliers and relevant employees have been duly informed, acknowledged and trained on the Supplier Code of Conduct to ensure comprehensive understanding and adherence. Additionally, Supplier Code of Conduct is periodically reviewed and updated to reflect evolving circumstances and requirements.

In 2024, the Supplier Code of Conduct was revised to strengthen its coverage of key areas, including human rights and labor practices, environmental responsibility, business ethics, and supplier compliance assessment, ensuring alignment with current global standards and best practices.

 

 

Supplier Code of Conduct	Performance (%)
Inform	100
Acknowledge	81.72
Training	81.72

 

 

Supplier Management

 

1. Supplier ESG Program

BJC is committed to embedding Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles throughout its supply chain to generate positive impacts for stakeholders and the environment. The Supplier ESG Program demonstrates this commitment by fostering sustainable practices and ensuring responsible sourcing.

 

Program Governance

• Oversight: The Board of Directors oversees the Supplier ESG Program, setting strategic direction, monitoring performance, and ensuring alignment with BJC’s sustainability objectives.
• Implementation: Executive Management and the Sustainable Development (SD) working team are responsible for implementing the program. Their duties include developing policies, monitoring supplier performance, and driving continuous improvement initiatives.

 

Purchasing Practices

BJC regularly reviews and enhances its purchasing practices to ensure alignment with the Supplier Code of Conduct and ESG principles. Key practices include:

• Conflict Resolution: Addressing potential conflicts between purchasing decisions and ESG standards.
• Supplier Assessment: Conducting ongoing evaluations of ESG performance for existing and prospective suppliers to ensure consistency with sustainability objectives.
• Promoting Sustainability: Identifying and leveraging opportunities to encourage sustainable practices across the supply chain.

 

Supplier RequirementsMinimum

• ESG Standards: BJC has established clear ESG standards that suppliers must meet. Non-compliance within a specified timeframe may result in exclusion from future business engagements.
• ESG Performance in Supplier Selection: BJC prioritizes suppliers with strong ESG performance in the selection process, integrating ESG criteria as a key factor in contract awards.

 

Training and Capacity Building

To support the successful implementation of the Supplier ESG Program, BJC provides training for buyers and stakeholders. This includes:

• Understanding the significance of ESG in supply chain management.
• Familiarizing stakeholders with BJC’s ESG expectations for suppliers.
• Developing methods for evaluating supplier ESG performance.
• Collaborating with suppliers to advance ESG initiatives effectively.

 

Continuous Improvement

The Supplier ESG Program is designed to adapt to evolving best practices and regulatory requirements. BJC is committed to:

• Regular Reviews: Periodically updating the Supplier Code of Conduct and ESG requirements to reflect industry advancements.
• Monitoring Trends: Staying informed on emerging ESG trends and integrating them into the program.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Actively seeking feedback and identifying areas for improvement to enhance the program’s effectiveness.

 

2. Supplier Screening and Identification

BJC employs a comprehensive approach to supplier identification and screening to ensure sustainability and effective risk management within its supply chain. The process begins by identifying potential suppliers through market research, industry networks, and referrals.

Prospective suppliers are subject to a rigorous screening process based on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) indicators. These indicators evaluate supplier performance across critical areas such as resource management, labor practices, human rights, and ethical business conduct.

 

Human Rights and Labor	Environment	Business Ethics
Forced Labor  Child Labor  Working conditions (e.g., working hours, physical/mental demands of the workplace, wages, benefits)  Occupational Health and Safety  discrimination and Harassment  Freedom of Associations and Collective Bargaining	Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Energy Consumption  Pollution Prevention and Waste Management  resource Efficiency  Biodiversity, No Deforestation, or Land Conservation	Anti-corruption and Conflict of Interest  Anti-Competitiveness

 

Identification of Critical Suppliers

 

Critical suppliers are defined as those whose goods, services, or intellectual property are essential to BJC’s operations, competitive advantage, and long-term success. These suppliers are categorized into two groups:

• Critical Tier 1 Suppliers: Direct providers of essential goods and services.
• Critical Non-Tier 1 Suppliers: Indirect suppliers whose products or services are vital to BJC’s operational continuity.

 

Critical Tier1 and Significant Supplier Identification and Assessment

 

 

BJC employs a tiered approach to supplier management, categorizing suppliers based on their total spending and strategic importance. This classification facilitates efficient allocation of resources and the development of tailored engagement strategies, fostering collaboration and mutual growth across the supply chain.

Following the initial screening, BJC conducts a comprehensive risk assessment that evaluates a wide range of factors, including country-specific, sector-specific, and commodity-specific risks.

 

Risk Assessment Framework

BJC’s risk assessment framework is designed to address potential factors that could affect the stability and efficiency of its supply chain operations. Key considerations include:

• Country-Specific Risks: Factors such as political instability, economic volatility, regulatory changes, and natural disasters that could disrupt the supply of goods or services.
• Sector-Specific Risks: Industry-specific risks, including labor practices, environmental impact, and adherence to regulatory compliance requirements.
• Commodity-Specific Risks: Risks related to specific raw materials or products, including supply chain disruptions, price volatility, and quality concerns.

 

Classification of Significant Suppliers

Upon identifying critical suppliers and completing detailed risk assessments, BJC consolidates the data to classify suppliers as “significant” if they meet any of the following criteria:

• High ESG Risk: Suppliers identified as posing a significant risk of negative environmental, social, or governance impacts.
• High Business Relevance: Suppliers whose products or services are essential to BJC’s operations and are characterized by high dependency or limited alternatives.
• Combination of Both: Suppliers exhibiting both high ESG risk and high business relevance.

This classification system enables BJC to focus engagement and risk mitigation efforts on significant suppliers. By prioritizing these relationships, BJC ensures that vulnerabilities are addressed effectively and sustainability performance is enhanced.

 

Significant suppliers: Suppliers that are identified as having significant risk of negative environmental, social or governance impacts or significant business relevance to the company or a combination of both.

 

Commitment to a Sustainable Supply Chain

BJC’s supplier screening, risk assessment, and classification processes are integral to maintaining a resilient, sustainable, and ethical supply chain. By proactively identifying and prioritizing critical and significant suppliers based on ESG considerations and operational importance, BJC demonstrates its commitment to managing risks, promoting sustainability, and fortifying its supply chain for long-term success.

 

Supplier Screening and Identification	2024
1. Total Number of Tier-1 Suppliers	3,056
1.1 Local Suppliers	2,739
1.2 International Suppliers	317
2. Total Critical Tier-1 Suppliers	334
3. Total number of significant suppliers in Tier-1	357
3.1 % of total spend on significant suppliers in Tier-1	65
3.2 Total number of significant suppliers in non Tier-1	38

 

3. Supplier Assessment

 

Assessment Methodology

BJC employs a multifaceted approach to evaluate and monitor supplier performance, incorporating the following key components:

1. On-Site Assessments

On-site evaluations are conducted by BJC’s internal teams or independent third-party auditors, adhering to Amfori Business Social Compliance Initiative (BSCI) standards. These assessments provide a detailed review of suppliers’ operations, ESG performance, and risk management practices, tailored to the specific context of Thailand. They offer valuable insights into operational risks, vulnerabilities, and improvement opportunities, ensuring alignment with Thailand’s sustainability goals and regulatory requirements.

Adoption of Amfori Standards

BJC incorporates the Amfori Business Social Compliance Initiative (BSCI) standards to assess suppliers, focusing on areas such as human rights, workplace health and safety, and environmental protection. Adherence to these rigorous standards reflects BJC’s commitment to ethical sourcing, safeguarding worker welfare, and promoting environmental sustainability across its supply chain.

 

2. Desktop Reviews

Desktop reviews leverage data from supplier self-assessments, publicly available information, and industry benchmarks to provide a preliminary evaluation of a supplier’s sustainability performance and risk profile. This method enables BJC to prioritize suppliers for more detailed on-site evaluations.

 

3. Third-Party Audits

Independent third-party audits offer an objective evaluation of suppliers’ ESG performance and risk management practices. These audits enhance the transparency and credibility of the supplier assessment process, ensuring compliance with BJC’s high standards.

 

By utilizing this integrated approach, BJC ensures systematic monitoring of supplier performance, enabling the early identification of risks and fostering opportunities for continuous improvement throughout the supply chain.

 

Supplier Corrective Action and Improvement Plans

Through on-site assessments of critical suppliers, BJC identifies suppliers classified as high or medium risk based on criteria set forth in the Supplier Code of Conduct. Any discrepancies or non-compliance identified during these evaluations are promptly communicated to the suppliers, accompanied by corrective action plans with agreed timelines.

BJC’s internal teams collaborate closely with suppliers to implement these improvement plans, tracking and monitoring progress to ensure compliance.

Notably, in 2024, the Private Label group's food, non-food, home line, and hardline units conducted 173 supplier audits, with all suppliers successfully meeting the required standards.

In cases where a supplier fails to meet BJC’s standards despite remediation efforts, the business relationship may be terminated. This rigorous process is a cornerstone of BJC’s supplier risk management strategy, safeguarding the resilience of its supply chain while ensuring legal, financial, and customer health and safety requirements are consistently upheld.

 

KPIs for Supplier Assessment

 

Coverage and Progress of Supplier Assessment Program

 

Supplier Assessment	2024	Target for 2024
Total number of suppliers assessed via desk assessment/on-site assessments	295	Number of suppliers: 250
Percent of unique significant suppliers assessed	82.63
Number of suppliers assessed with substantial actual/potential negative impacts	46
Percent of suppliers with substantial actual/potential negative impacts with agreed corrective action/improvement plans	100
Number of suppliers with substantial actual/potential negative impacts that were terminated	0

 

Coverage and Progress of Suppliers with Corrective Action Plans 

 

Corrective Action Plan Support	2024	Target for 2024
Total number of suppliers supported in corrective action plan implementation	8	Percent of significant suppliers: 100
Percent of suppliers assessed with substantial actual/potential negative impacts supported in corrective action plan implementation	100

 

4. Supplier Development

 

At BJC, we understand that building a robust and resilient supply chain goes beyond risk mitigation, it requires the continuous development of supplier capabilities and performance. As a cornerstone of our sustainability strategy, supplier development reflects our commitment to nurturing sustainable living for all, creating a future where every community thrives, and no one is left behind.

Our proactive approach to supplier development is designed to empower suppliers, promote ethical and responsible business practices, and drive continuous improvement across the value chain. By fostering collaboration and shared growth, BJC strengthens its supply chain to contribute to a more sustainable and inclusive future.

 

Supplier Development Strategy

BJC’s supplier development strategy is tailored to address the unique needs and challenges faced by diverse supplier groups, ensuring a collaborative and inclusive ecosystem. Key initiatives include:

• Capacity Building: Providing targeted training programs, workshops, and knowledge-sharing platforms that equip suppliers with the tools and expertise needed to implement sustainable practices and improve their Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) performance.
• Shared Value Creation: Recognizing that BJC’s success is deeply connected to the success of its suppliers, we focus on fostering long-term partnerships that drive mutual growth and generate positive impacts for all stakeholders.
• Continuous Improvement: Encouraging innovation and advancing supply chain processes to address sustainability challenges and seize emerging opportunities, ensuring that both BJC and its suppliers remain at the forefront of responsible business practices.

These initiatives embody BJC’s dedication to creating shared value, driving environmental stewardship, and fostering social progress across the supply chain.

 

Fostering Collaboration and Resilience

BJC is committed to cultivating a collaborative environment where suppliers are supported with the necessary resources and guidance to enhance their sustainability efforts. This partnership-oriented approach ensures that suppliers not only meet but exceed ethical and sustainability standards, contributing to a responsible and resilient supply chain ecosystem.

Through targeted development programs, BJC empowers suppliers to grow responsibly and align their operations with our overarching vision of a sustainable future. By investing in their development, we strengthen relationships, foster innovation, and ensure that all participants in the value chain share in the benefits of growth and progress.

 

Coverage and Progress of Suppliers in Capacity Building Programs

BJC is committed to driving long-term, sustainable growth by empowering suppliers through comprehensive capacity-building initiatives. These programs are designed to enhance productivity, elevate product quality, and promote environmental and social responsibility across the supply chain.

A key area of focus is the company’s close collaboration with farmers, critical partners of Berli Jucker Food (BJF). BJC provides targeted training, access to modern agricultural technologies, and advanced farming practices. By encouraging methods such as efficient irrigation, effective soil management, and optimized crop selection, BJC helps farmers improve yields while minimizing environmental impact.

Further reinforcing its environmental commitment, BJC supports key suppliers in achieving Green Industry Level 2 certification from Thailand’s Department of Industrial Works, Ministry of Industry. This initiative includes structured training and consultancy services to promote green, community-conscious practices in alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Through these efforts, BJC not only enhances supplier capabilities but also strengthens a resilient, responsible, and future-ready supply chain, delivering long-term value to all stakeholders and reinforcing BJC’s leadership in sustainable business.

 

Capacity building programs	2024	Target for FY 2024
Total number of suppliers in capacity building programs	679	Number of suppliers: 500
Percent of unique significant suppliers in capacity building programs	100

 

 

Supplier Development Initiatives in 2024

• Supplier Management Verification

In 2024, BJC engaged LRQA to verify data on supplier management, including screening, assessment, and development processes. This initiative aims to enhance supply chain management practices and ensure long-term sustainability.

 

• Relationship Management and Capacity Building

                         1. Green Digital Printing and Sustainability

BJC, in collaboration with HP Inc. (Thailand) Co., Ltd., hosted a seminar for suppliers to reinforce the significance of sustainable development in the printing industry and to address the challenges posed by climate change. The seminar also served as a platform to communicate BJC’s sustainability policies, development guidelines, and Supplier Code of Conduct to participating suppliers.  Moreover, there was a knowledge sharing session from climate expert from The Creagy Company Limited.

Furthermore, the event featured a presentation on HP Indigo technology, which enhances production flexibility while utilizing environmentally friendly printing oils and inks. This initiative underscores BJC’s commitment to advancing sustainability within the printing industry while simultaneously strengthening relationships and enhancing supplier development, fostering a shared path toward a sustainable future.

The seminar was attended by 180 suppliers.

 

  2.Capacity Building on Green Industry Requirements

BJC continues to promote environmental responsibility across its supply chain through capacity-building initiatives. These include supporting Key Suppliers in obtaining Green Industry Level 2 certification from the Department of Industrial Works, Ministry of Industry, by providing training programs and consultancy services. This initiative underscores their commitment to environmentally and community-friendly business practices, aligning with sustainable development goals. The training covers key topics such as Green Industry requirements, sustainable development, and practical guidance on implementing environmental projects.

Key Training and Consultancy Topics

1. Introduction to the Green Industry Level 2 Certification:

Providing suppliers with a clear understanding of the project’s objectives, benefits, and the step-by-step process for achieving Green Industry Level 2 certification.

2. Building a Sustainable Organization:

Sharing best practices and key insights from BJC’s sustainability journey, with references to relevant sections of the company’s sustainability report to support practical application.

3. Green Industry Level 2 Compliance Requirements:

Explaining the specific criteria and standards suppliers must meet for certification, including mandatory green activities and guidelines for submitting applications to the Department of Industrial Works.

4. Environmental Project Development and Implementation Workshop:

Enhancing suppliers’ capabilities in designing and executing effective environmental projects through hands-on training in project writing, planning, and implementation strategies.

 

In 2024, BJC conducted on-site surveys and consultations with over 100 suppliers to assess their need for capability enhancement in achieving Green Industry Level 2 certification. The evaluation identified 66 suppliers requiring further development, which is scheduled to be implemented in 2025.

 

3. BigC Supplier Conference 2024

BigC hosted the BigC Supplier Conference 2024 under the theme “BigC Big Success Together” to reaffirm its commitment to strengthening Thailand’s retail industry. The event underscored the importance of strategic collaboration with business partners in developing innovative solutions and services that comprehensively address consumer needs. In recognition of outstanding contributions, Outstanding Business Partner Awards were presented to honor key partners for their invaluable support and cooperation in fostering sustainable business growth. The award recipients were as follows:

1. Best Category Partnership
2. Best NPD Innovation
3. Best Service Level
4. High Sales Growth
5. Rising Star
6. The Most New Branches Opening
7. Best Partnership

 

​​​​​​

• Strengthening Supply Chain Resilience Through Sustainable Agriculture Practice and Animal Welfare

BJC’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond its immediate suppliers to encompass the entire value chain. Guided by its Sustainable Sourcing of Agricultural Raw Material Policy and Animal Welfare Policy, BJC emphasizes sustainable agricultural practices, animal welfare, and the responsible use of natural resources. The company collaborates closely with its suppliers to ensure compliance with these standards, fostering a more sustainable and ethical food system.

Sustainable Sourcing of Agricultural Raw Material Policy

BJC’s Sustainable Sourcing of Agricultural Raw Material Policy serves as the foundation of its responsible sourcing strategy. This policy mandates strict adherence to sustainability criteria across all BJC operations and subsidiaries, extending to both tier-1 and non-tier-1 suppliers. By partnering with suppliers who share its commitment to environmental and social responsibility, BJC seeks to minimize its environmental footprint, protect biodiversity, and ensure the availability of safe, nutritious, and sufficient food for all.

Animal Welfare Policy

Although BJC does not directly engage in animal rearing, housing, transport, or slaughter, the company is committed to upholding animal welfare throughout its value chain. BJC’s Animal Welfare Policy applies to all sourced animal products, including meat, poultry, and seafood. The policy underscores collaboration with suppliers and business partners to ensure the “five freedoms” of animal welfare are upheld, safeguarding the quality of life for animals.

Sustainable Agricultural Practices

BJC recognizes the critical role of sustainable agriculture in advancing environmental stewardship, food security, and socioeconomic development. In alignment with United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 2: Zero Hunger, BJC is committed to integrating sustainable practices throughout its agricultural supply chain, fostering a more resilient and equitable food system.

 

1. BigC’s Farmer Development Program: Fostering Sustainable Agriculture in Northern Thailand

Since 2019, BigC, a subsidiary of Berli Jucker Public Company Limited (BJC), has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to empowering local farmers in Northern Thailand. Recognizing the region’s agricultural potential, BigC has developed a collaborative initiative to enhance farmers’ capabilities and promote sustainable agricultural practices.

Through this initiative, farmers gain access to scientific knowledge, best practices, and modern agricultural techniques, leading to improved crop yields and enhanced product quality. Additionally, BigC supports farmers in adopting proper packaging practices to meet the stringent quality standards required for sale in BigC’s retail outlets and online platforms.

 

By actively engaging with farmers and providing the necessary resources and expertise, BigC has facilitated the production of high-quality crops that are now readily available to consumers through its extensive distribution network. This initiative not only creates new income opportunities for local farmers but also ensures that BigC customers have access to fresh, locally sourced, and high-quality produce.

This long-standing collaboration between BigC and the Northern Agricultural Cooperative underscores BJC’s commitment to sustainable agriculture and community development. By empowering local farmers and promoting sustainable practices, BJC contributes to the economic prosperity of the region while ensuring a reliable supply of safe, nutritious, and locally sourced produce for consumers.

 

2. Sustainable Agriculture at Berli Jucker Food (BJF)

In response to the volatility of global raw material markets, BJF has proactively developed a robust local supply chain over the past three decades. This strategic initiative, centered on contract and cooperative farming systems, ensures a reliable supply of high-quality, safe raw materials for BJF’s core product portfolio.

 

Contract Farming Model

BJF’s contract farming model secures 95% of its raw materials, primarily essential crops such as potatoes and sweet potatoes, through partnerships with local farmers. This mutually beneficial arrangement provides farmers with income stability via pre-negotiated pricing, mitigating the risks associated with market fluctuations.

 

Cooperative Farming Model

The remaining 5% of BJF’s raw materials are sourced through a cooperative farming system, which prioritizes product quality and safety through rigorous assessments by specialized experts at the point of collection. Cooperative farmers benefit from continuous professional development opportunities and access to a dedicated 41-acre (103-rai) learning center focused on farm mechanization, with a particular emphasis on potato cultivation.

 

Quality Assurance and Sustainability Framework

BJF remains steadfast in upholding stringent quality and safety standards. In 2024, a significant portion of its raw materials came from farmers registered under the Department of Agriculture’s Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) program—marking 7 consecutive years of full compliance across BJF’s supply chain. Rigorous annual audits conducted by the Department of Agriculture further reinforce quality control measures and strengthen relationships with partner farmers.

The GAP framework encompasses comprehensive monitoring of farming practices, including crop yields, growth cycles, product quality, and fertilizer usage. This data-driven approach fosters continuous improvement and promotes the adoption of organic fertilizers, reducing the environmental impact of chemical inputs.

 

Strategic Impact

By empowering local farmers and prioritizing sustainable agricultural practices, BJF is building a resilient and responsible supply chain that delivers long-term benefits for both the company and the communities it serves.

• • Supply Chain Resilience – Strengthened local sourcing capabilities reduce exposure to global market volatility.
  • Enhanced Farmer Livelihoods – Contracted farmers gain income stability and access to ongoing training programs.
  • Superior Product Quality – Consistent compliance with GAP standards and continuous improvement through knowledge-sharing initiatives.
  • Environmental Sustainability – Minimized dependence on chemical fertilizers and adoption of water-efficient irrigation techniques.

 

BJF Sustainable Agriculture Initiative in 2024

In 2024, BJF further advanced agricultural efficiency and sustainability by implementing comprehensive training and knowledge transfer programs to reduce chemical fertilizer usage among 579 farmers in Phayao and Chiang Rai provinces. These efforts resulted in a reduction of 160.45 tons of chemical fertilizers, which contributed to a decrease in greenhouse gas emissions by 155 tons of CO₂ equivalent.

Through these initiatives, farmers were equipped with advanced agricultural techniques and technologies, thereby ensuring consistent crop quality and safety.

Furthermore, in line with its expanded sustainability initiatives, BJF introduced advanced water resource management practices for farmers in Phayao and Chiang Rai provinces, encompassing 4,188 rai. This initiative led to a reduction in water consumption by 1.11 million cubic meters.

These efforts reflect BJF’s strong commitment to environmental stewardship and the long-term sustainability and resilience of agricultural practices.

 

 

 

• ​​​​Empowering Local Suppliers / Farmers

BJC is dedicated to fostering economic growth and community well-being by prioritizing partnerships with local farmers and suppliers.  Recognizing their vital role in sustainable development, BJC actively sources from local agricultural producers, strengthening regional economies and creating employment opportunities.

 

Local Suppliers / Farmers: Businesses, individuals, or cooperatives within Thailand that produce and supply goods, particularly agricultural and consumer products, to BJC. These suppliers support local economies, promote sustainable sourcing, and reduce environmental impact through shorter supply chains.

International Suppliers: Global companies or entities that provide goods and services to BJC from outside Thailand. These suppliers must adhere to responsible sourcing practices and maintain transparency in procurement policies to ensure ethical and sustainable supply chain management.

 

 

• BigC Big Smart Local

Big C has continued its support for and participation in the SME Business Matching program since 2023, working alongside government agencies to promote the growth and sales of Thai SMEs, OTOP enterprises, and Thai agricultural products. This program aligns customer needs across regions with locally available products for in-store sales, helping ensure that consumers have access to fresh, high-quality items.

Through close collaboration with dedicated Big C experts, participating SMEs, OTOP enterprises, and local farmers receive essential guidance and hands-on support to enhance product quality and safety. The focus on minimizing chemical use ensures that the products meet market demands while prioritizing consumer safety.

This initiative not only expands business opportunities for small enterprises but also benefits consumers by offering high-quality, locally sourced products at Big C Supercenters nationwide.

In 2024, as part of this initiative, Big C procured SME products from 172 suppliers, totaling 3,738 SKUs — an increase of 24% compared to 2023. This initiative generated over 400 million THB in revenue for SME entrepreneurs.

 

• Smart Farming System

As part of its ongoing commitment to enhancing the capabilities of local farmers, BJC continues to lead the "Smart Farming System" project. This innovative initiative leverages cutting-edge technologies, including information technology and artificial intelligence (AI), to optimize farming practices for local agriculturalists.

Enhancing Production Efficiency

By optimizing resource utilization, the Smart Farming System enables farmers to increase crop yields while maintaining sustainable levels of resource consumption. This increase in productivity creates greater income opportunities, improving farmers’ overall quality of life.

Streamlining Labor Utilization

The system addresses labor shortages by reducing reliance on manual labor, mitigating occupational health and safety risks. This not only provides farmers with more time to focus on other essential tasks but also supports diversified income streams, further improving their livelihoods.

Promoting Resource Conservation

The Smart Farming System helps conserve natural resources by optimizing irrigation and energy use, reducing both electricity and water consumption. This approach aligns farming practices with sustainable production and consumption principles, fostering long-term environmental sustainability.

Enhancing Equipment Longevity

Through the use of predictive maintenance algorithms, the system minimizes equipment downtime and extends the lifespan of farming machinery. This proactive approach reduces waste and unnecessary costs, reinforcing the financial stability of farmers and ensuring efficient operations.

 

• Spending on Local Farmers and Suppliers

Recognizing the essential role that local suppliers play in driving economic growth and enhancing community well-being, BJC prioritizes sourcing from local agricultural producers. This strategic focus not only strengthens local economies and generates job opportunities but also ensures that BJC has access to a reliable supply of high-quality, safe, and nutritious raw materials and products.

 

             Local Spending

Performance	Unit	2024
Total procurement spending	THB	133,836,140,284
Spending on local suppliers and contractors for significant operations	THB	125,357,136,402
Spending from local supplier compare to total spending procurement spending	%	94

 

• Collaboration with Supplier on Sustainable Packaging Initiative

Big C is committed to promoting sustainable packaging through strategic partnerships that encourage consumers to reduce single-use plastic consumption. In collaboration with I.P. One Co., Ltd., a leading manufacturer and distributor of consumer products in Thailand, Big C supports the adoption of the Circular Economy approach, which focuses on optimizing resource utilization and minimizing waste generation across both production and household consumption. This initiative aims to drive long-term behavioral change by encouraging consumers to adopt reusable packaging and reduce reliance on single-use plastics.

A key initiative of this collaboration is the Hygiene Refill Station, a fabric softener refill dispenser introduced in 2021. To date, 11 refill stations have been deployed across BigC stores, providing consumers with a more sustainable alternative to conventional packaging and generating annual revenue exceeding 3 million baht.

 

Credit Management Policy for Suppliers

 

At Berli Jucker Public Company Limited (BJC), we are committed to conducting our business with the utmost transparency and integrity. One of the cornerstones of our operational philosophy is ensuring timely payments to our suppliers and lenders. We rigorously adhere to the credit terms stipulated in our contractual agreements, honoring all financial commitments within the agreed-upon timelines.

 

By maintaining this high standard of financial discipline, we not only uphold our reputation for reliability but also foster strong, trust-based relationships with our business partners. This approach ensures that our suppliers and lenders have confidence in our ability to meet our obligations, which is essential for sustaining smooth and uninterrupted operations across all facets of our business. Our commitment to timely payments reflects our broader dedication to ethical business practices and operational excellence, reinforcing BJC's standing as a dependable and trustworthy corporate entity.

 

Grievance Channel for All Stakeholders: Upholding Ethical Standards and Transparency

 

As part of its commitment to ethical business practices and sustainable development, BJC has established a robust grievance channel to promote open communication and accountability. This initiative reinforces BJC’s dedication to nurturing sustainable living for all, ensuring that every stakeholder has a voice and can contribute to a culture of transparency and continuous improvement.

Confidentiality and Anonymity

BJC places the utmost importance on safeguarding stakeholder trust. All grievances submitted through the established channels are handled with strict confidentiality. To further protect individuals, BJC offers the option to report anonymously, ensuring that all stakeholders feel secure and empowered to raise their concerns without fear of reprisal.

Accessible Reporting Channels

To make the grievance process inclusive and convenient, BJC provides multiple reporting options tailored to diverse stakeholder needs:

1. Online Reporting Platform:
   A 24/7 online form is available on the BJC website, allowing stakeholders to submit detailed reports with supporting evidence.
2. Dedicated Hotline:
   Stakeholders can contact the hotline (02-146-5999) during business hours to voice concerns directly with trained personnel. Anonymity is guaranteed for callers who choose it.
3. Secure Email:
   Concerns and accompanying documentation can be sent securely via email to Comsec@bjc.co.th, ensuring timely and confidential handling.
4. Postal Mail:
   Written reports, along with any relevant evidence, can be sent to the Human Resources Department or the Company Secretary at BJC’s corporate headquarters.

Grievance Management Process

Upon receiving a grievance, BJC undertakes a thorough and impartial investigation. The company is committed to addressing all concerns promptly and equitably, ensuring that remedial actions align with its ethical principles. Every step of the process is managed with integrity, reinforcing BJC’s commitment to ethical standards and stakeholder trust.

Benefits of the Grievance Channel

The grievance channel plays a vital role in fostering an ethical and transparent corporate culture while contributing to BJC’s mission of creating a sustainable future for all:

• Early Issue Detection:
  Proactively identifies and addresses risks or ethical breaches, minimizing potential impacts on stakeholders and operations.
• Enhanced Stakeholder Engagement:
  Strengthens relationships with stakeholders by promoting open communication and trust, fostering collaboration across communities and partners.

Continuous Improvement:
Insights from grievances provide valuable feedback for refining BJC’s policies, procedures, and ethical standards, driving ongoing enhancements to the organization’s sustainability and governance framework

In 2024, under a rigorously managed approach, no supplier-related complaints were reported.