What type of policies should be included in supplier pre-qualification criteria?

Including environmental, ethics, and occupational health and safety policies in supplier pre-qualification criteria is essential because these aspects reflect the supplier's commitment to sustainable practices, ethical conduct, and the well-being of their workforce.

Evaluating suppliers on these criteria ensures that they align with the organization's values and legal compliance standards. It also mitigates risks associated with environmental impact and workplace safety, which can have significant implications for your company’s reputation and liability. By preferring suppliers who adhere to strong policies in these areas, organizations can enhance their own supply chain resilience and commitment to corporate social responsibility.

On the other hand, focusing on marketing and sales strategies, customer satisfaction guarantees, and operational independence does not directly address the critical aspects of sustainability and ethical behavior. While these may be important in other contexts, they do not form the foundation for assessing the responsible and ethical practices that are increasingly expected of suppliers in today's business environment.