10. Heineken values and principles (continued)
Rule of law
Heineken maintains a worldwide policy of
compliance with laws and regulations. Heineken
respects local cultures. It will adapt to local
situations whenever possible, however, without
prejudice to the Heineken values and principles
or local laws and regulations.
Quality
Heineken assures that its products are produced
according to the highest food safety standards.
In the case that a product does not fully meet these
standards, Heineken will not hesitate to take
appropriate action. As for the use of raw materials,
it is Heineken's policy to only use ingredients that
are safe for human consumption.
Behaviour
In relationships with employees, customers and
other stakeholders, reliability and integrity are
essential preconditions. Heineken expects its
employees to refrain from acts that may damage
these preconditions.
Heineken strives to provide a high level of
enjoyment to its customers and consumers.
Heineken will market and distribute its products
in a responsible way. Therefore Heineken will act in
good faith when persuading a consumer to choose
one of its products. This means that vulnerable
groups will not be targeted. Heineken aims to
provide comprehensive information about the
advantages and the disadvantages of its products
in order to facilitate a balanced consumer choice.
Heineken will be truthful to employees, customers,
consumers, governments, financial institutions or
other stakeholders. All information it gives will be
correct and transparent.
Employees
Heineken aims to positively contribute to the well-
being of its employees. It will take appropriate
measures to continuously improve safety and
health aspects within its facilities. Heineken will
maintain a medical policy aimed at providing
access to medical services for its employees and
their families.
Heineken will keep in place a policy that is aimed
at the development of skills in line with the natural
talents of its employees. In relation to the
appointment or career prospects of employees,
Heineken will pay attention only to the suitability
of the candidate (education, personality, skills,
working experience) and his or her legitimate
demands. Heineken will base its decisions
regarding (future) employees solely on the basis of
objective criteria. It respects reasonable personal
convictions or qualities of (future) employees.
Heineken supports fundamental human rights in
line with the legitimate role of business. It secures
the human rights of its employees within its
facilities. In the case of external violations of the
human rights of its employees, Heineken will
provide assistance to its best abilities.
Heineken believes that children should be able to
play and learn. This means that Heineken will not
employ children within its facilities. Heineken will
develop programmes to eliminate the employment
of children by its business partners.
Conflicts of interest
Heineken expects its employees to avoid conflicts
between business and private interests, as well as
the acceptance or donation of personal gifts that
could influence the integrity of business decisions.
Competition
Heineken believes in the principle of fair
competition. It will keep in place policies and
programmes aimed at giving guidance to
employees to ensure that they understand
competition laws and act in compliance with them.
Corruption
Heineken believes that corruption must be
eliminated from society. It will maintain appropriate
policies and programmes aimed at reducing and
avoiding corruption.
Environmental issues
Heineken aims to exercise due care with respect to
the environment. It will pay specific attention to the
consumption of raw materials, water, energy and
other resources within its processes, as well as
minimising waste emissions to the environment.
Heineken N.V. - 2004/2005 Sustainability Report