California Transparency

The California Transparency in Supply Chains Act of 2010 was introduced to encourage companies that manufacture or sell products in California to provide greater visibility into how they address the risks of forced labor, human trafficking, and other forms of modern slavery within their supply chains. By requiring public disclosure of certain policies and procedures, the law aims to give consumers better insight into the ethical practices of the brands they support. With access to this information, individuals are better equipped to make purchasing decisions that reflect their personal values and expectations regarding responsible production.

In alignment with these requirements, Allbirds has implemented a Responsible Sourcing Program that focuses on protecting workers, promoting ethical labor standards, and reducing the risk of exploitation throughout its supply chain. The program reflects the company’s broader commitment to responsible business practices and acknowledges that the well-being of workers is an essential part of sustainable product development. Allbirds believes that everyone involved in creating its products should be treated with dignity and respect and should work in conditions that meet recognized standards for safety and fairness.

Transparency plays an important role in how the company approaches supply chain responsibility. Allbirds encourages its suppliers to maintain open communication about their operations, including both strengths and areas that may require improvement. Suppliers are expected to provide information not only about their own facilities but also about the subcontractors and additional partners that contribute to the manufacturing process. This level of visibility allows the company to better evaluate potential risks and ensure that its expectations extend beyond the first tier of production. Openness in reporting is viewed as a key step toward building trust, accountability, and long-term progress.

Another component of the program involves formal agreements with suppliers. Allbirds works closely with a selected group of manufacturing partners that demonstrate commitment to respecting labor rights and complying with local regulations. Before beginning a business relationship, new partners are required to agree to the company’s Code of Conduct and acknowledge their responsibility to follow laws related to forced labor, human trafficking, and other forms of exploitation. These contractual commitments establish clear expectations and reinforce the importance of ethical conduct throughout the production process.

Prior to receiving production orders, prospective factories must also complete a social responsibility assessment carried out by an independent third-party organization. These evaluations are designed to determine whether facilities meet the company’s standards for labor practices, worker welfare, and workplace safety. The assessment process typically includes confidential conversations with employees, examination of relevant documentation, and on-site inspections of working conditions. In some cases, assessments may take place without prior notice in order to gain a more accurate understanding of everyday operations. The frequency and depth of these reviews may vary depending on regional risks or the historical performance of the supplier.

Any evidence of forced labor, human trafficking, or related violations is treated with the highest level of seriousness. If such issues are discovered during an assessment, the facility will fail the evaluation. In these circumstances, the company will suspend production orders until the problems are addressed and corrective actions are implemented within an agreed timeframe. This strict approach reflects the company’s position that exploitation and abusive labor practices cannot be tolerated within its supply chain.

In addition to assessments, the program emphasizes continuous progress. Suppliers are expected to respond to identified concerns by implementing meaningful corrective measures that address underlying causes rather than temporary solutions. Allbirds works with partners to monitor improvements and verify that changes are sustained over time. This ongoing oversight encourages suppliers to develop management systems that promote accountability and responsible practices in the long term.

Education is also an important element of the company’s approach. Employees involved in sourcing, production management, and supply chain oversight receive training designed to help them recognize and respond to risks related to forced labor and human trafficking. Through this training, team members gain a deeper understanding of how ethical considerations influence business decisions and how they can contribute to stronger oversight throughout the sourcing process.

Through these combined initiatives, Allbirds seeks to maintain a supply chain that reflects its commitment to fairness, transparency, and responsible manufacturing. By strengthening monitoring systems, supporting supplier improvements, and promoting awareness among employees, the company works toward reducing the risk of exploitation and contributing to broader efforts aimed at eliminating modern slavery and human trafficking from global production networks.