Global Virtual Supplier Day 2026: Preventing Child Labor, Forced Labor & Corruption
Heidelberg Materials currently collaborates with thousands of suppliers and business partners globally, with an annual supplier spend of around €14 billion. More than 90% of all goods and services are sourced locally across more than 50 countries. Beyond operational excellence, sustainability remains a key focus in our supplier relationships, including a shared commitment to human rights, ethical business conduct, and robust ESG standards.
As part of our Responsible Procurement Initiative, Heidelberg Materials maintains a proactive dialogue with suppliers through regular interactions, collaborative programmes, and dedicated supplier engagement events. Building on the success of previous virtual supplier days, the 2026 edition focused on Preventing Child Labor, Forced Labor & Corruption, bringing together suppliers and Heidelberg Materials representatives from across the Asia-Pacific region to discuss how responsible business practices can strengthen resilient and sustainable supply chains.
The event was opened by Daniel Köstl, Chief Procurement Officer, and featured contributions from Roberto Callieri, Member of the Managing Board responsible for the Asia region, Regional Compliance Officer, Natthinee Phatchaweewan, Regional Compliance Officer Asia & Legal and Compliance Manager Thailand, Nicole Mao, Legal & Compliance Director Asia, and Ian Dobson, Area Procurement Director APAC. Together, they highlighted the importance of conducting business with integrity, protecting human rights throughout the value chain, and fostering strong partnerships with suppliers based on transparency, trust, and shared values.
A central theme of the event was the prevention of child labor and forced labor in global supply chains. Speakers outlined the challenges companies face in increasingly complex sourcing environments and emphasized the need for effective due diligence processes, supplier engagement, and continuous monitoring. Corruption prevention and ethical business conduct were also highlighted as essential foundations for long-term business success and sustainable growth.
The event also included a guest presentation from one of Heidelberg Materials' supplier partners who shared best practices on preventing child labor, forced labor, and corruption, highlighting the importance of effective governance, transparent reporting, employee awareness, and accessible reporting channels. The presentation provided valuable insights into how suppliers can strengthen their compliance frameworks and contribute to more sustainable and responsible supply chains.
The discussions reinforced Heidelberg Materials' commitment to building a sustainable supply chain and working closely with suppliers to ensure compliance with human rights, labor, environmental, and ethical standards. Participants were also introduced to digital collaboration and sustainability platforms, including SAP Ariba and IntegrityNext, which support greater transparency and enable suppliers to demonstrate and share their sustainability performance across customers and markets.
Responsible procurement is an integral part of Heidelberg Materials' sustainability strategy. By engaging suppliers on topics such as labor standards, human rights, compliance, and corruption prevention, the company aims to drive continuous improvement throughout its value chain while creating long-term value for customers, suppliers, employees, and society.
Daniel Köstl, Chief Procurement Officer, Heidelberg Materials:
Preventing child labor, forced labor and corruption is not only a compliance requirement, but a fundamental responsibility we share with our suppliers. Sustainable supply chains can only be built on trust, transparency and respect for human rights. Together with our business partners, we are committed to conducting business the right way and creating positive impact throughout our value chain.
- Strengthening partnerships through shared values
The Global Virtual Supplier Day 2026 once again demonstrated the importance of open dialogue and collaboration between Heidelberg Materials and its suppliers. By sharing best practices, discussing common challenges, and aligning on expectations, Heidelberg Materials and its partners continue to advance responsible procurement and contribute to more sustainable and resilient supply chains worldwide.