The BRC has published a statement on UK food retailers approach to the Sedex audit methodology, SMETA 7.0. Sedex have also published an FAQs on SMETA 7.0.

On the new methodology, Sophie De Salis, Sustainability Policy Advisor at the BRC, said:

“UK retailers want to do everything in their power to protect workers. They are supportive of the new audit methodology and are working closely with Sedex on this transition, including how this can be aligned with the industry's ongoing work on recruitment fees, through the Seasonal Worker Scheme Taskforce.”

“UK retailers are also working together to make sure suppliers get clear and consistent advice and reassure them that the introduction of the "Collaborative Action Required" issue code will be used to encourage collective action and will not require anyone to shoulder the responsibility alone.”