Modern Slavery Statement
1. Introduction
This statement is published voluntarily by Paperline Limited in accordance with the spirit and principles of the Modern Slavery Act 2015. Although we are below the statutory turnover threshold of £36 million that would trigger a mandatory reporting obligation, we recognise that our global supply chain carries inherent risks and we are committed to acting ethically and transparently.
Modern slavery encompasses slavery, servitude, forced and compulsory labour, and human trafficking. We acknowledge that these abuses can occur in complex international supply chains, and we take seriously our responsibility to identify and address them.
2. About Paperline Limited
Paperline Limited is a UK-based wholesale distributor of disposable hygiene products and personal protective equipment. Our product range includes:
- Nitrile, latex and vinyl examination and industrial gloves
- Toilet tissue and hand towel products
- Paper rolls and hygiene consumables
- Personal protective equipment (PPE)
We supply businesses across the UK, operating with a team of approximately 20 employees based in the United Kingdom. We do not operate any overseas offices or subsidiaries.
3. Our Supply Chain
Our supply chain is international in scope. We source products directly from approximately 60 manufacturers across multiple countries in Europe and Asia.
We purchase directly from manufacturers (tier 1 suppliers) rather than through intermediaries or agents. However, we currently have limited visibility of tier 2 suppliers and beyond — that is, the raw material suppliers and sub-contractors used by our manufacturers. We recognise this as a gap and an area for improvement.
4. Risk Assessment
We have assessed the modern slavery risk profile of our supply chain based on the nature of our products and the geographies in which we source. Our assessment is as follows:
| Supply Chain Area / Risk Factor | Risk Level |
|---|---|
| Glove manufacturing (Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam) | High |
| PPE manufacturing (China) | Medium-high |
| Paper / tissue products (China, Europe) | Medium |
| European suppliers (EU-based) | Lower |
| Tier 2+ supply chain (raw materials, sub-contractors) | Unknown |
5. Due Diligence Steps Taken
We acknowledge that our current due diligence processes are at an early stage of development. The following steps have been taken during the period covered by this statement:
- Reviewed our supplier base to identify those operating in higher-risk geographies and product categories.
- Initiated internal discussion at director level regarding the development of a supplier code of conduct.
- Began reviewing industry guidance and best practice frameworks relevant to our sector.
6. Identified Gaps and Our Commitments for 2025/26
We are honest about the limitations of our current approach and have identified the following priorities for the coming year:
Supplier Code of Conduct
We will develop and issue a Supplier Code of Conduct setting out our expectations on labour rights, working conditions, wages, freedom of association, and prohibition of forced and child labour. All new and renewing supplier agreements will incorporate this code.
Supplier Questionnaires
We will introduce a modern slavery risk questionnaire for our highest-risk suppliers — initially focused on our glove manufacturers — to gather information on their labour practices, workforce demographics and sub-contracting arrangements.
Supply Chain Mapping
We will work towards improved visibility of our supply chain beyond tier 1, with a particular focus on raw material sourcing for our higher-risk product lines.
Staff Awareness and Training
We will provide modern slavery awareness training to all staff, with a focus on helping employees recognise indicators of exploitation in our supply chain and business operations.
Reporting and Whistleblowing
We will introduce a clear internal mechanism for staff and third parties to raise concerns about suspected modern slavery, exploitation or labour abuse, without fear of reprisal.
Ethical Trade Schemes
We will explore membership of, or engagement with, recognised ethical trade and audit schemes relevant to our sector as a means of obtaining independent assurance over supplier practices.
7. Policies
At the date of this statement, Paperline Limited does not have a standalone modern slavery policy or supplier ethical code. The development of these documents is a stated priority for 2026/27, as set out in Section 6 above.
Our director-level oversight of this agenda ensures that ethical supply chain matters are considered at the highest level of the organisation.
8. Review and Accountability
This statement has been approved by the director of Paperline Limited and will be reviewed and updated annually. Progress against the commitments set out above will be assessed as part of that annual review, with outcomes reported in the following year's statement.