Our Motivation
KARMA (n., Sanskrit: root: कर्मन् karman, nominative: कर्म karma, Pali: kamma „action, deed“)
“The belief that every present action has a corresponding consequence in the future, for which one is responsible through one’s actions, and which simultaneously offers an opportunity to become a better person.”
Originally stemming from a spiritual concept of cause and effect, “KARMA” can be ideally applied to business practices: with every decision we make, we influence the world around us every day. Sustainability is an important global goal, concretized through the UN SDGs. Companies have a strong leverage here – and with it, the opportunity to become a better company.
OUR MISSION STATEMENT
OUR MOTTO
GOOD KARMA FOR GOOD FUTURE
In 2006, our desk series “KARMA” was awarded the environmental certificate “BLUE ANGEL” for the first time. What began as a small selection that made its way into the HAN portfolio has grown into an extensive series for sustainable office management. Today, KARMA has evolved into the motto of our corporate sustainability commitment. Since then, good KARMA has been present at all levels of the company. One could say that the products of this successful eco-line marked the starting point for a company-wide guiding principle.
VISION & MISSION
VISION
We are the leading German manufacturer of smart products that support people in organizing their personal and professional environments. The HAN brand is recognized across borders as a design-oriented and sustainable innovation leader, offering high-quality organizational solutions.
MISSION
HAN products are made from high-quality raw materials, using the latest technologies and drawing on the full knowledge and care of our valued employees. We explore new market segments and nurture our business relationships. Internally, we continuously work on the sustainable improvement of processes, production facilities, and systems.
VALUES & PRINCIPLES
SUSTAINABILITY
We pay careful attention to resource management and plan, operate, and act sustainably and measurably across all levels of the company (raw materials, procurement, processing, administration, machinery, packaging, logistics, etc.).
SERVICE AND BUSINESS RELATIONSHIPS
For customers and suppliers, we are a reliable and future-oriented partner. We communicate honestly and transparently, build long-term business relationships, are personally accessible, and work together to find solutions.
INNOVATION AND MARKET POSITION
In expanding our market share, we rely on trust, customer focus, and the company’s innovative strength. With a product portfolio based on the “good, better, best” principle and many years of experience in sales and marketing, we are able to meet the diverse interests of our target groups.
EMPLOYEES AND COLLABORATION
We value our employees, their personal and professional development, and a trusting and respectful work environment. Everyone works together across departmental boundaries to achieve our goals.
ENVIRONMENTAL GUIDELINES
1. ANCHORING SUSTAINABILITY AS AN OVERARCHING GUIDING PRINCIPLE WITHIN THE COMPANY
Leading by example in environmental protection. We are aware that the production of HAN products involves the use of raw materials. Therefore, we place great importance on the longevity of our products and the careful handling of natural resources during production, in order to minimize harmful environmental impacts. Environmentally responsible actions are an integral part of our corporate philosophy and a key element of our company management.
2. LEADING BY EXAMPLE IN ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
Environmental protection is part of our corporate philosophy, and it goes without saying that we contribute to environmental protection and sustainability. We support and encourage our employees to think and act ecologically.
3. RAISING EMPLOYEE AWARENESS
Employees’ environmental awareness and competence are promoted through regular informational initiatives. We ensure that environmentally conscious thinking is sustainably implemented at all levels and that the environmental guidelines are optimally integrated into operational practices. Staff are encouraged to actively contribute to environmental and resource protection, for example through ideas and suggestions.
4. MAKING PROCUREMENT AND INVESTMENTS ECOLOGICALLY RESPONSIBLE
Whenever possible, we prioritize working with local partners.
5. CONSERVING RESOURCES
Conserving and using all resources efficiently is our top priority. By employing the latest, resource-saving technologies, we make everyday work processes environmentally friendly. In doing so, we strive to avoid or minimize negative environmental impacts (wastewater, noise, waste, emissions). All consumption media (electricity, heat, water, operating materials) are recorded monthly. From these consumption figures, savings targets are derived and accompanied by concrete improvement measures.
6. INFORMING THE PUBLIC AND CUSTOMERS
Through a transparent information policy, both internally and externally, we aim to inform our employees, customers, the public, and authorities in an appropriate manner about our environmental protection activities. We strive for a factual, open, and comprehensive dialogue. We actively participate in regional initiatives to improve competitiveness (e.g., Ökoprofit), leveraging the benefits of local networking among key stakeholders.
7. CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT
We continuously improve our energy and environmental performance within the scope of our influence, thereby making a long-term contribution to the preservation of the environment and nature. Compliance with environmental legal requirements is a matter of course for us..
United Nations SDGs
The 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are at the heart of the 2030 Agenda, adopted in 2015. They combine social, environmental, and economic objectives of sustainable development. However, sustainability can only succeed through collective effort —governments, businesses, municipalities, and individuals alike are called upon to take an active role.
ÖKOPROFIT®
ÖKOPROFIT is the entry point to a comprehensive environmental management system, based on a holistic consideration of all environmentally relevant impacts of business activities. The program demonstrates ways to reduce costs while responsibly operating in line with national and global environmental and climate protection standards.
In workshops held over the course of a year, environmentally relevant topics important to the company were addressed. In parallel, company-specific data and key figures were collected. Topic areas included, among others, “Energy, Emissions, and Climate Protection,” “Waste,” “Hazardous Substances,” “Legal Compliance,” “Occupational Safety,” and “Corporate Mobility Management.”
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Additionally, as part of ÖKOPROFIT, HAN underwent an independent sustainability assessment based on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to identify key sustainability objectives while taking stakeholder interests into account.
These SDGs, which are particularly relevant for the company, highlight significant areas of action. Continuous monitoring and improvement serve as both risk prevention and a guide for future developments at the site.
SDGs OF STRATEGIC IMPORTANCE
Scientific studies show that education is one of the most important drivers of long-term economic growth. It makes people more productive, fosters ideas, innovation, and technological progress—both at the national economic level and within companies. We support our team in developing their personal strengths and advancing both professionally and individually. Well-educated employees are more satisfied and actively help shape the future of our company—a benefit for all of us and for the global goals.
As a modern company with a high energy demand, we consider it particularly important to focus on efficiency and renewable energy. To this end, we monitor processes and analyze efficiency potentials to reduce consumption. We are supported by various external experts who assist us in developing strategies and concepts and help oversee the internal implementation of projects.
Globally, the focus is on sustainable, inclusive growth, productive full employment, and decent work for all—goals that we as a company in Germany can directly influence. We achieve high economic productivity through diversification, technological modernization, and innovative strength. In doing so, we provide our employees with ample creative freedom and modern, fully equipped work environments. Resource efficiency and circular concepts link economic growth with environmental protection.
With our location in Herford, we contribute to keeping Germany an attractive business location. We focus on resource-efficient, low-emission production using environmentally friendly technologies and develop future-oriented products and business ideas. Collaborations, internal committees, and modern IT standards ensure our competitiveness and enable flexible working arrangements, including remote work.
Through Germany’s central location, we access the markets of the EU as well as Central and Eastern Europe. Short distances in procurement and logistics enable sustainable production and operations. In doing so, we adhere to our Code of Conduct and expect the same from our partners. We make no compromises when it comes to raw materials and certified recycled materials—and we guarantee the longevity of our products with quality “Made in Germany.”
One of the greatest global challenges in environmental protection is the reduction of human-made greenhouse gases. The link between greenhouse gas concentrations and global temperatures is scientifically established. Reduction measures are necessary to allow ecosystems to adapt to climate change. As a company, we have a direct impact on our CO₂ emissions and derive targeted optimizations through the analysis of energy-intensive processes.
“Global challenges require global, joint efforts”—this is how SDG 17 is specified in its targets. Business challenges also demand a strong community. Only a well-coordinated team with the right partners can meet the diverse tasks and demands. At HAN, we have relied on long-term, partnership-based business relationships for many years. Our experience shows that this approach sustainably supports goal achievement and the successful implementation of ideas.
ADDITIONAL RELEVANT SDGs
Poverty manifests in many forms—lack of income, limited access to water, education, or healthcare, or restricted rights and freedoms, such as in career choice, voting rights, or freedom of expression. HAN actively supports its employees in these areas, with a particular focus on training and education as well as promoting diversity and individual development.
The United Nations regard health as a key factor for sustainable development and global prosperity. Applied to companies, this means that a healthy, engaged team is productive and actively contributes to success—whether in sales or in sustainability projects.
The study “Women in Business and Management: The Business Case for Change” surveyed over 12,000 companies across 70 countries. More than 57 percent of the companies confirmed that gender diversity improves business performance. Considering gender aspects is therefore a logical step in addressing equality. The mix of personal and professional strengths leads to demonstrable performance improvements within the company.
The primary focus is on the development of inclusive, resilient, and sustainable cities. As a locally based company, we can also have an indirect impact—whether by supporting municipal projects with our expertise or through sustainable design measures on our own premises.
SDG 15 focuses on the protection, restoration, and sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems. This includes forests, soils, water resources, and biodiversity conservation. Companies can actively contribute by promoting sustainable resource use, thereby safeguarding biodiversity and the stability of our ecosystems.
Companies can have a significant impact on the ideals of SDG 16 by promoting a culture of integrity through transparent business practices, clear anti-corruption and anti-bribery policies, and adherence to regulations. Fair working conditions, fair trade, and the strengthening of local communities further support corporate engagement.
CODE OF CONDUCT
PREAMBLE
HAN Desktop GmbH, hereinafter referred to as HAN, sees itself as part of an internationally interconnected economy and, as an operation at its location, as part of the states and societies in which it operates. HAN Desktop GmbH adheres to the principles of the “honorable merchant” and acknowledges its responsibility as a company.
• HAN monitors the direct and indirect impacts of its business activities on the environment and society and strives to balance economic, ecological, and social interests appropriately.
• HAN acts in accordance with generally accepted values and principles, complies with the law, and in particular respects internationally recognized human rights and labor standards, as outlined below.
• HAN supports the goals and content of the Code of Conduct and, within its legal and practical possibilities, will make all reasonable and appropriate efforts to continuously uphold this voluntary commitment at all of its company locations.
If existing national regulations conflict with the contents of the Code of Conduct, or if the domestic context makes full compliance impossible, the company will seek ways to uphold the requirements of the Code of Conduct as much as possible.
ETHICAL / MORAL COMMITMENT AND INTEGRITY
HAN pursues exclusively legal business objectives and practices. The company maintains business relationships only with reputable partners. HAN treats business partners and customers fairly and respectfully. HAN respects the diverse legal, economic, social, and cultural backgrounds, as well as the specific conditions of the countries and regions in which it operates. In doing so, HAN complies with the laws and regulations of the countries and regions where business activities take place. HAN always aligns its business conduct with universally accepted ethical values and principles, including integrity and respect for human dignity. HAN is committed to free and fair global trade.
CORRUPTION, TRADE CONTROL, MONEY LAUNDERING
HAN rejects any form of bribery and corruption. We avoid even the appearance of such practices—whether in the form of granting or accepting improper advantages. HAN acts in compliance with applicable import and export control regulations and adheres to legal requirements for the prevention of money laundering.
FAIR COMPETITION
HAN advocates free and fair competition, does not tolerate anti-competitive agreements, and ensures that the company operates in compliance with applicable antitrust laws. HAN rejects competitive advantages gained through unfair business practices.
HANDLING OF PERSONAL DATA, PROTECTION OF CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION AND INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY
HAN respects the personal rights of its employees, business partners, and customers and complies with applicable legal and regulatory requirements on the processing of personal data and information security when handling personal information.
HAN protects entrusted trade secrets and other confidential information of its business partners and customers from unauthorized acquisition, use, and disclosure, at least in accordance with the relevant legal provisions on the protection of trade secrets.
HAN respects the intellectual property of its business partners, customers, and other third parties, and ensures that sufficient safeguards for the protection of intellectual property rights are in place when exchanging know-how and technologies.
SAFEGUARDING CONSUMER INTERESTS
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Where HAN’s products and services affect consumer interests, appropriate measures are taken to ensure the safety and quality of these products or services.
HAN ensures that its products or services comply with the applicable consumer protection laws. In its information and sales activities, the company takes consumer interests into account by adhering to legal requirements for fair business, marketing, and advertising practices, as well as consumer education.
HAN respects the intellectual property of its business partners, customers, and other third parties, and ensures that adequate safeguards are in place to protect intellectual property rights when exchanging know-how and technologies.
ECOLOGICAL RESPONSIBILITY AND COMMITMENT
The protection and preservation of natural resources concerns and obliges us all. With this awareness, HAN conducts its business activities in an ecologically responsible manner and is committed to the goal of a climate-neutral future.
HAN respects the intellectual property of its business partners, customers, and other third parties, and ensures that adequate safeguards are in place to protect intellectual property rights when exchanging know-how and technologies.
PROTECTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT AND CLIMATE
HAN fulfills its ecological responsibility by applying applicable legal requirements and recognized standards for the protection of the environment and climate. The company continuously works to reduce the negative impacts of its business activities on the environment and climate.
HAN complies with applicable laws and implements appropriate measures based on legal and internationally recognized standards, covering, among other things, the following areas:
• Proper, responsible, and professional handling of hazardous substances, chemicals, and waste, including their disposal
• Measures to reduce or avoid waste
• Minimizing emissions from operational processes (e.g., wastewater, air emissions, noise, greenhouse gases)
• Conserving natural resources, for example through measures to save water, chemicals, and other raw materials, and promoting a circular economy
• Use of climate- and environmentally friendly technologies, processes, raw materials, and products
• Measures to increase energy efficiency and the share of renewable energy in the company’s energy consumption at its sites
ANIMAL AND SPECIES PROTECTION
HAN adheres to the principles for the protection of animals and biodiversity and aligns its business activities accordingly. The keeping and use of animals must comply with applicable animal welfare laws and be appropriate for the species. The Washington Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) serves as a guiding framework.
HUMAN RIGHTS AND LABOR STANDARDS
Human dignity is inviolable. Therefore, HAN respects internationally recognized human rights, as set out in the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights. HAN follows the internationally recognized labor standards of the International Labour Organization (ILO), as outlined in this Code of Conduct. In all business activities, HAN strives neither to cause nor to contribute to human rights violations. HAN expects the same from its business partners and, where necessary and possible, supports its suppliers in this regard.
EMPLOYMENT RELATIONSHIPS
HAN treats its employees with respect and rejects any form of unlawful punishment, abuse, harassment, intimidation, or other degrading treatment of workers. HAN applies the applicable labor laws to all employment relationships and expects the same from its contractors.
At the start of employment, employees are provided with clear information about the essential terms and conditions of their employment, including their rights and obligations, working hours, remuneration, and payment and accounting procedures. HAN respects and protects the right of employees to terminate their employment in compliance with the applicable notice periods.
REJECTION OF CHILD LABOR AND PROTECTION OF YOUNG WORKERS
HAN does not tolerate child labor and complies with the applicable legal minimum age for employment. In any case, HAN does not employ anyone under the age at which compulsory schooling ends according to the laws of the country of employment, and in no case under 15 years of age.
Internships are organized in accordance with legal requirements.
HAN expects its contractors to have and apply appropriate methods to verify age in order to prevent child labor. If child labor is detected, all necessary measures must be taken immediately, prioritizing the welfare, protection, and development of the child. For persons under 18 years of age, the rights of young workers must be respected; they may only be employed if it is ensured that the working conditions do not pose a risk to their health, safety, or morals, and are not detrimental to their development.
REJECTION OF FORCED LABOR
HAN rejects forced or compulsory labor in all its forms. This also applies to any form of debt bondage, serfdom, slavery, or slavery-like practices of human trafficking and extends to all forms of involuntary work or services that are incompatible with internationally recognized labor and social standards.
PRINCIPLES OF REMUNERATION
HAN applies the legal or, where applicable, collectively agreed provisions for the remuneration of work. HAN ensures that employees are paid at least the applicable legal, and where relevant, the collectively agreed or industry-standard minimum wage. Wage deductions that are not legally permitted, including deductions as a disciplinary measure, are not tolerated by HAN.
WORKING HOURS
HAN applies the legal or applicable collectively agreed provisions regarding working hours, including overtime, rest breaks, and annual leave. HAN ensures that:
• the regular weekly working hours plus any permitted overtime are not exceeded
• all working time regulations are observed
FREEDOM OF ASSOCIATION
HAN respects employees’ rights to freedom of association and assembly, as well as the right to collective bargaining and negotiations.
DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION, PROHIBITION OF DISCRIMINATION
HAN values the diversity of its employees and promotes a work environment that enables inclusion. The company is therefore committed to equal opportunities and rejects any form of discrimination or unequal treatment based on national or ethnic origin, social background, health status, disability, sexual orientation, age, gender, political opinion, religion, or belief. HAN upholds the principle of equal pay for male and female employees for work of equal value.
HEALTH AND SAFETY IN THE WORKPLACE
HAN complies with national and international occupational health and safety standards and ensures a safe and health-promoting work environment (preventing accidents, injuries, and work-related illnesses) to protect the safety and health of its employees and third parties.