Why does amfori introduce supplier-initiated audits?

19 June 2025

From July 2025 onwards, suppliers or linked to amfori members will be able to request their own audits directly via the amfori Sustainability Platform. This new feature represents a significant development in our approach to shared responsibility and ESG risk management in supply chains.

Why this change?

At amfori, we believe that sustainability is a shared responsibility. This update is designed to:

Support committed suppliers to take the initiative in their sustainability efforts
Foster business continuity by enabling proactive audit planning
Enhance transparency and trust between members and their supply chain partners
Free up member resources to focus on results analysis and long-term improvement strategies

This update reflects our commitment to transparency, shared responsibility and continuous improvement in supply chains, without compromising audit quality or integrity.

What stays the same?

Members retain full visibility and control in the process via the “RSP” (Responsibility) mechanism
All audits remain traceable and consistent via the amfori Sustainability Platform
Notifications and follow-up actions remain unchanged
The feature is cost-neutral and fully integrated into existing workflows

What is the benefit for members?

This update is not just about operational efficiency; it’s about strategic alignment:

Better data, faster: Suppliers who initiate audits often provide more accurate and timely information
Reduced risk: Proactive audits help identify and address environmental, social and governance (ESG) risks before they escalate
Improved relationships: Trust and transparency are strengthened when suppliers are empowered to act
More time for impact: Members can shift their focus from logistics to long-term improvement and capacity building

Audits remain a tool, not a silver bullet

Although audits remain a valuable tool for ESG due diligence, they are not the only tool. We encourage you to consider audits as part of a broader risk management strategy, rather than a standalone solution.

amfori continues to invest in audit quality and encourages you to combine audits with other effective ESG due diligence solutions. Among them are capacity-building efforts, stakeholder engagement, and data-driven analysis to improve resilient and responsible supply chains, etc.

This change reflects our shared commitment to transparency, accountability, and continuous improvement. We invite you to explore how this new feature can support your sustainability goals and strengthen your risk management strategy.