forma vitrum de México, S.A. de C.V. is a supplier of glass for Penfill® production. The company has been evaluated on social and environmental issues since the programme began in 2002.
"In the beginning we were surprised to be asked such questions by a customer. They are dealing with issues which we are usually asked by authorities, not customers," says Claudia Cordera, Customer Service, forma vitrum de México.
"After the team from Novo Nordisk visited us, we took some steps to improve the working environment, for instance with regard to minimising the temperature and noise inside the production areas. We also started working on our ISO 14001 environmental management system. As part of this we now pose questions to our own suppliers regarding risk and datasheets for solvents and waste handling etc.
"So far we have not requested social performance data from our suppliers, since these are audited by the government authorities.
"We would like to get summary information about what Novo Nordisk is doing to address these issues. We know that we are working in different business areas and have different processes, but we could use the information for inspiration, and as a guidance as to where they would like us to develop further.
"Having been rated satisfactorily by Novo Nordisk may prove to be an asset for us and provide added value in a competitive situation. When you take care of the company as a whole, for example your employees, you get better results; it helps improve the quality of our products and the relationships with our customers."
