Gvidas Krolis, CEO of Bagfactory: ‘This certificate is a recognition of our consistent work. A few years ago, we were awarded an A rating for this standard, and now we have the highest rating, AA. This means that we are consistent in our commitment to safe, sustainable and quality products. We are transparent with both our partners and the end customer – the buyer.’
The eighth version of the BRCGS (Brand Reputation Compliance Global Standards) is valid from February 2019. The standard is designed to ensure supplier compliance and empower traders to guarantee the safety and quality of their products. BRCGS aims to help retailers and brand owners produce food products of uniform safety and quality, and to provide evidence of fair practices in case of future concerns about the legitimacy of their activities. This is important given that under European Union food law, retailers and brand owners are legally responsible for their brands.
Opening new pathways
The BRCGS rating is becoming an increasingly important indicator for developing international partnerships. With an estimated 28,000 suppliers worldwide participating in the BRCSG programme, it’s natural that businesses look to responsible suppliers when looking for partners.
Krolis: ‘The market for packaging and reusable bags is highly competitive, so an international award not only recognises our work but also opens up further avenues. BRCGS certificates are valued worldwide, with 130 countries participating in this certification programme. Today, many retailers and leading brands choose as their partners those suppliers who have achieved BRCGS certification in their activity category. This certification proves that we can not only provide a first-class product but also advise our customers on sustainability and functionality of the packaging, thus helping them to find the best solution.’
He points out that the certificate demonstrates the company’s commitment to developing safe and quality products. It also demonstrates compliance with the global standard and was subjected to a rigorous audit before awarding the certificate. The BRCGS standard focuses on ensuring a consistent auditing process, reducing the likelihood of adulteration and increasing transparency in the traceability of the product supply chain.
According to audit and finance experts Deloitte, 7 out of the world’s top 10 most successful suppliers have achieved BRCGS certification and 1 in 2 of the world’s top 25 manufacturers also have such a rating.
Bagfactory, founded in Lithuania in 2015, operates a packaging plant in Vilnius and cooperates with brands such as Lidl, Aldi, Netto and other global supermarket chains.
