What should businesses regularly assess in their suppliers to align with ethical standards?

Businesses should regularly assess workplace conditions in their suppliers to align with ethical standards because maintaining safe and fair working environments is a fundamental aspect of corporate social responsibility. Ethical sourcing not only involves ensuring that products are sourced from suppliers who comply with laws and regulations but also emphasizes the importance of the ethical treatment of workers. This includes evaluating issues such as safety measures, fair wages, labor rights, and overall working conditions.

By prioritizing workplace conditions, businesses can mitigate risks associated with labor exploitation, unsafe work environments, and potential reputational damage stemming from unethical practices. This assessment is crucial in fostering a sustainable supply chain that is aligned with both ethical standards and consumer expectations regarding social responsibility.

While financial performance, brand recognition, and market share are valuable metrics for assessing a business's health and competitiveness, they do not directly address the ethical implications of a company’s supply chain practices. Thus, they don't serve the purpose of ensuring that suppliers adhere to ethical sourcing principles.