Stakeholders
One of Steinhoff's core values is to address the group's social environment – both internally and externally.
Employees are the cornerstone of the group, and employee wellness and development are recognised as key factors that contribute to maintaining and building a sustainable business. Over the years, these have assisted the group in consistently delivering on growth targets.
The group supports the broad-based black economic empowerment (B-BBEE) efforts of the African operations and investments. In 2008, Steinhoff made available 40 million Steinhoff International shares for the benefit of eligible employees. Steinhoff, as a group, achieved a level four B-BBEE score in 2014.
The group supports the human rights principles dictated by the countries within which it operates and as set out in the ten principles of the United Nation's Global Compact. It is the social and ethics committee's responsibility to oversee and manage the group in this regard, as prescribed by the South African Companies Act. Suppliers undergo a vigorous social audit process and Steinhoff has a zero tolerance policy on any form of human rights violations.
Through various social programmes and initiatives the group's operations invest and participate in their direct communities. Most of these initiatives are focused towards childcare, education and, in Africa, HIV/Aids.