Corporate Governance

Responsibility does not end at the factory gate

Corporate Governance, Compliance and Responsibility in the Supply Chain 

Our identity and our self-image form the fundamentals of our actions. They provide guidance for decision-making within our own organisation and, at the same time, shape the standards we set for our business partners. We regard human rights, environmental protection and compliance with regulations as our commitment, which extends beyond our own operating locations. 

DEHN logo on building

Our objectives for responsible business practices

To ensure responsible corporate governance and collaboration throughout our supply chain, we pursue specific objectives and continuously refine our tasks. 

Strengthening integrity

We are constantly working to improve our compliance and integrity. 

Protecting systems and data

We are constantly strengthening our security infrastructure and protection measures. 

Rating suppliers

By 2028, we will assess 100% of our new suppliers and our top 100 existing suppliers annually based on clearly defined ESG criteria. 

Embedding ESG

By 2028, we will systematically incorporate ESG criteria into our procurement decisions. 

Shared values shape the way we act

Shared values provide guidance for decision-making and collaboration. They shape our corporate culture and provide a common frame for acting responsibly.

Corporate values

Our values form the fundamentals of our corporate culture and provide guidance for collaboration and day-to-day decision-making. 

Leadership Principles

Our Leadership Principles establish a shared understanding of leadership and support the implementation of our corporate strategy. 

Code of Conduct

The code of conduct translates values such as integrity, fairness, respect and responsibility into guidelines for day-to-day working life. 

Compliance Management

Local compliance officers and the Chief Compliance Officer support the Group-wide implementation, management and further development of compliance.  

DEHNspeakup whistleblower system

Speaking openly makes all the difference: Reports of human rights violations, breaches of the German Act on Corporate Due Diligence in Supply Chains or other irregularities can be submitted confidentially and anonymously via our whistleblowing system, DEHNspeakup.  

Responsibility throughout the value added chain 

 

 

More than 4,000 direct suppliers form part of DEHN’s globally extensive value added chain. The quality, reliability and safety of the products depend largely on the performance and integrity of these suppliers. That is why supply chain responsibility also encompasses human rights and environmental due diligence obligations, as well as quality and compliance standards. As a company whose business model is based on the protection of people, we regard respect for human rights, protection of the environment and acting with integrity as our responsibility throughout the entire value added chain – extending far beyond our own operating locations. 

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Common standards build trust

Clear minimum requirements

The code of conduct for business partners, introduced in 2024, defines minimum social, environmental and corporate requirements for working with suppliers.  

Transparent expectations

The code of conduct sets out the standards that DEHN expects to be met in its business relationships. 

Dialogue and Remedies

In the event of breaches, DEHN initially finds ways to engage in dialogue and works with the supplier to develop appropriate remedial measures. 

Termination of the business relationship

Termination of the business relationship may be considered in the event of a failure to make improvements or in the event of serious or repeated breaches. 

Supplier of the Year 2025

Reliable suppliers are a key prerequisite for quality, security of supply and sustainable value creation. That is why DEHN assesses its suppliers annually on the basis of clearly defined criteria. In addition to meeting deadlines and quantity targets, aspects such as strategy, planning, environmental management and quality management are also taken into account in the assessment. The ‘Supplier of the Year’ award recognises partners who have demonstrated exceptional activity and a high level of reliability over many years. 

Over 4,000 active suppliers 

The assessment takes into account DEHN’s entire supplier network. 

Comprehensive assessment 

Hard facts such as quality and delivery performance are taken into account, as are strategic and sustainability-related criteria.  

28 years of collaboration 

VTS GmbH Plastic was named ‘Supplier of the Year’ and is a prime example of long-term, trust-based partnerships. 

Systematically assessing human rights risks   

We analyse human rights and environmental risks throughout the supply chain using a structured task. If potential risks are identified, supplementary questionnaires provide the fundamentals for a more in-depth assessment. If confirmation of risks is obtained, we work with the suppliers concerned to develop appropriate measures and support their implementation. 

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Further developing human rights due diligence obligations 

For us, human rights are non-negotiable. In line with this commitment, we aim to further develop human rights due diligence obligations. In September 2025, staff members and managers took part in an additional workshop and examined human rights risks along the value added chain. This resulted in measures, each with defined timeframes and areas of responsibility.  

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Implementing due diligence obligations under the LkSG

DEHN is committed to respecting human rights and protecting the environment. The German Supply Chain Due Diligence Act (LkSG) covers, among other things, the prohibition of child and forced labour, safe working conditions, equal treatment, fair wages and the protection of natural resources. It also includes requirements for the handling of mercury, persistent organic pollutants and hazardous waste.

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Related key topics: 

  • Values and compliance management 
  • Responsibility in the supply chain 

Our objectives:  

  • Strengthen integrity
  • Strengthen information security
  • Evaluate suppliers
  • Systematically embed ESG principles 

 

 

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Clear rules provide guidance

Do you have any questions about human rights due diligence obligations?

Human Rights Officer
The Human Rights Officer is the point of contact for enquiries regarding the LkSG and risk management throughout the supply chain. The Human Rights Officer reports directly to the Executive Board.
Benjamin Goetz
Benjamin Götz
Human Rights Officer
lksg@dehn.de
Corporate Sustainability 
Susanne Horn is on hand to assist you with any queries regarding sustainability and the resulting requirements for your business.
Susanne Horn
Susanne Horn
Head of Corporate Sustainability
sustainability@dehn.com