Every child. Every thoughtful action. Every future.

All children and young people have rights. They are a particularly vulnerable group and may be more exposed to risks related to health, safety, and wellbeing. At the same time, their voices are not always heard in decisions that affect them.  

As a large, international retailer, Salling Group has a responsibility to act with care and integrity. Through the products we sell, the people we employ, and the communities we are part of, we influence the lives, health and wellbeing of children and young people. Respecting and protecting children’s rights is therefore not only a matter of compliance, but a core part of how we take responsibility as a company. 

Our responsibility and commitments

Respect for children's rights is anchored in Salling Group’s overall approach to human rights and responsible business conduct. Our work is guided by our Human Rights Policy, our Supplier Code of Conduct, and our commitment to the UN Global Compact.  

As part of our assessment of risks related to consumers and end-users, we consider impacts on children and young people, including in relation to our products, services and marketing activities.

We recognise that children’s rights can also be impacted indirectly through the working conditions of parents and caregivers. To support employees through different stages of life, we have introduced a Life Phase Policy, which aims to help balance work and family responsibilities.

Child labour and responsible supply chains

Salling Group is committed to preventing our products and services from being linked to child labour. We actively work to prevent and address risks in our supply chains through supplier due diligence and ongoing monitoring.  

This includes amfori BSCI assessments, which review social, environmental and community‑level conditions at production sites. 

We expect our suppliers to comply with internationally recognised standards for children's rights, including the UN Convention on the Rights of Child and relevant ILO conventions.

Engaging with children and young people

We are working to strengthen how we engage with children and young people across our business. Listening to their perspectives helps us make better, more informed decisions and develop solutions that are relevant and inclusive.

One example is the føtex Youth Board, a brand-level initiative that enables young colleagues to share insights on topics such as communication, store experience, health and sustainability. Their input helps guide decisions at brand level and supports the development of solutions that reflect young people’s needs and perspectives.

Supporting children and young people in communities

Beyond minimising risks, we aim to contribute positively to the wellbeing of children and young people in the communities where we operate. We support initiatives that promote mental wellbeing, physical health, inclusion, play and learning through long-term partnerships and local engagement. 

Responsible marketing and product safety

Responsible marketing and product safety are key priorities for Salling Group, particularly in relation to children and young people. We are committed to transparent and responsible marketing and comply with all relevant legislation and standards.  

We apply age restrictions where relevant, including on digital platforms, and take care to avoid that products and campaigns target underage consumers. This also applies to products that may be used by, or could come in contact with, children.  

As part of our marketing practices, considerations related to children and young people are integrated into our legal and compliance assessments within marketing and marketplace activities. These assessments cover both binding legislation and relevant voluntary industry standards. For example, when reviewing marketing of foods high in sugar, fat and salt, we may adjust channel choice, placement or decide not to run a campaign where children are likely to be exposed. 

Product safety is a top priority, including for children’s products such as toys and clothing. We expect our suppliers to comply with applicable product safety requirements and our internal guidelines aligned with legal requirements, such as our Safety in Children’s Wear guidelines. If health or safety concerns arise, we act immediately by withdrawing or recalling affected products in line with regulatory requirements.  

As a food retailer, we also support initiatives that promote healthy habits and informed choices among children and families. This includes partnerships focused on food education, physical activity and healthier everyday choices. For example, Netto is the main partner of Skolepokalen, a nationwide school sports programme, and collaborates with Madkulturen on Det Grønne Rul, which focuses on food education and healthier everyday food choices for families and children.