Modern Slavery Statement

Modern Slavery Statement

Published: October 2025
For the financial year ending: April 2026

This statement is made in accordance with the Modern Slavery Act 2015 and sets out the steps taken by Paper Thistle Ltd (“we”, “our”, “us”) to ensure that modern slavery and human trafficking are not taking place within our business operations or our supply chain.

1. Our Organisation

Paper Thistle Ltd is a UK-based online retailer specialising in books, gifts, and cultural products inspired by Scottish heritage and craftsmanship. Our activities include e-commerce sales, order fulfilment, and customer service. We are committed to conducting all aspects of our business ethically, transparently, and responsibly.

2. Our Commitment

We maintain a zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery, human trafficking, and forced or compulsory labour in any form. We are committed to:

  • Acting ethically and with integrity in all our business relationships.

  • Ensuring transparency within our supply chain and internal operations.

  • Raising awareness of modern slavery risks among our employees, suppliers, and business partners.

3. Our Supply Chains

Our supply chains primarily involve:

  • Book publishers, wholesalers, and distributors.

  • Printing, packaging, and stationery suppliers.

  • Technology and digital-service providers.

  • Delivery and logistics partners across the UK.

We recognise that some suppliers may operate in countries where labour standards are less regulated. We therefore expect all our suppliers to uphold our ethical principles and comply with all applicable laws on labour and human rights.

4. Policies and Procedures

To minimise the risk of modern slavery in our operations and supply chains, we have implemented the following measures:

  • Supplier Code of Conduct: All suppliers must adhere to our ethical trading standards and applicable labour legislation.

  • Contractual Obligations: Our supplier contracts include clauses requiring compliance with the Modern Slavery Act 2015 and associated legislation.

  • Whistleblowing Policy: Employees and partners may confidentially report any concerns regarding unethical practices, including suspected modern slavery, without fear of retaliation.

  • Staff Training: Key staff involved in procurement, operations, and HR receive training on recognising and reporting potential indicators of modern slavery.

5. Due Diligence

We conduct appropriate due diligence on all new and existing suppliers by:

  • Assessing new suppliers before onboarding.

  • Monitoring ongoing supplier compliance and performance.

  • Investigating and addressing any reported ethical or labour-related concerns.

We reserve the right to suspend or terminate relationships with suppliers who fail to meet our standards.

6. Risk Assessment

While the majority of our suppliers are based in the United Kingdom and subject to strong employment regulations, we acknowledge that risks can occur deeper within extended supply chains. We continue to review and evaluate these relationships to ensure any potential exposure to modern slavery is identified and mitigated.

7. Effectiveness

We measure the effectiveness of our actions through:

  • Periodic supplier audits and compliance assessments.

  • Monitoring employee training completion rates and awareness levels.

  • Recording, reviewing, and responding to any reported concerns.

We are committed to continuously improving our procedures to reduce the risk of modern slavery and to promote ethical business practices throughout our operations.

8. Approval

This statement has been approved by Paper Thistle Ltd and will be reviewed and updated annually.

Paper Thistle Ltd
Registered Office: Third Floor, 3 Hill Street, Edinburgh, Scotland, UK
Date: 03 October 2025