The Consumer Goods Forum Announces SSCI Recognition of MPS-SQ Under the Social Benchmark for Primary Production

This recognition is part of the SSCI’s benchmarking process, which reviews auditing, monitoring and certification programmes against a set of publicly available criteria. Under the Social Benchmark for primary production, these criteria include areas such as management systems, human rights, responsible recruitment, working conditions, health and safety, and grievance mechanisms.

MPS-SQ is a social certification developed by MPS to enable producers in the horticultural sector to demonstrate responsible labour practices. The recognition confirms that the programme’s governance and processes meet the expectations set out in the benchmark.

This recognition provides consumer goods companies, retailers, and suppliers with additional insight when independently assessing social assurance programmes that align with their sourcing strategies.

As part of its independent benchmarking process with the SSCI, MPS reviewed and strengthened aspects of the MPS-SQ programme in line with good practice in social compliance. This included improvements to its:

• Data Management System – MPS upgraded its IT systems,
• Auditor Qualifications – MPS upgraded its Auditor Qualifications, including training requirements, to align with SSCI requirements,
• Complaints Process – MPS formalised and publicly published its process for handling complaints through its complaints channel. 

These updates were developed by MPS and reflect its ongoing work to enhance the programme’s quality and relevance within the horticultural sector.

“This recognition is a confirmation of the quality we are building together with the entire chain,” says Linda Hoogendoorn, Managing Director of MPS. “It provides participants of MPS-SQ with the right credentials to meet the growing demands of
the international market.”

“Recognition like this reinforces the value of credible assurance programmes that keep people and working conditions at the heart of global production. The SSCI helps bring clarity to a complex space, giving companies the confidence to make informed, responsible decisions that reflect their own priorities and values,” said Didier Bergeret, Director of Sustainability at The Consumer Goods Forum.

To date, the SSCI has recognised ten schemes, with an additional four currently undergoing the benchmarking process. The SSCI recognises that auditing, monitoring and certification programmes are built upon solid assessment processes and provide information about diverse sustainability best practices while preserving competitive choice.

For more information contact Luiza Reguse, Senior Manager, SSCI and Zoe Daruwalla, Communications Officer at The Consumer Goods Forum.