Buying Statement
Buying Statement
Suma is a worker-owned co-operative focused on sustainable, ethical, and vegetarian business practices. Since 1977, we’ve proudly sourced vegetarian, eco-friendly, and cruelty-free products, aiming to inspire healthy, sustainable lifestyles. Our buying statement sets out sourcing and supplier standards, and our commitment to improvement.
Sourcing Standards
We exclusively stock vegetarian products, with a large selection being vegan. All body care, cosmetics, and household products are cruelty-free and GMO-free.
Organic and Fairtrade products – we prioritise organic and Fairtrade products, ensuring that dairy items are strictly organic.
Eco-friendly initiatives – our commitment to sustainability includes promoting bulk and refillable products, reducing plastic use, and supporting recyclable or biodegradable packaging. We seek suppliers who minimise packaging waste and incorporate recycled or ocean-bound plastic. We avoid air-freighting goods.
Supplier Standards
Ethical and sustainable practices – we like to support co-operatives, B Corps, small producers, suppliers led by marginalised groups, and those committed to sustainability, carbon reduction, and ethical agriculture. We value suppliers with certifications like the Soil Association, RSPO, the Vegan Society, and Leaping Bunny.
Ethical trading and compliance – all direct suppliers complete our Supplier Ethical Questionnaire (SEQ) and are required to align with the Ethical Trading Initiative (ETI) code. We support fair payment terms, uphold worker rights, and foster open supply chain transparency.
Commitment to Improvement
Suma’s buying team are responsible for our buying policy. Our supply chain working group reviews our buying policy to minimise risk in light of new regulations and global challenges, ensuring we continue to offer products that meet our ethical and environmental commitments.
In every choice, we strive to balance business with positive social impact, honouring our vision for a sustainable, ethical future.