Code of Conduct
Last Updated: April 30th, 2024
At MMG Brands, we thrive on innovation and the joy of bringing the latest products to our customers worldwide. As a leader in the consumer products industry, our commitment to excellence is matched by our dedication to the highest standards of ethics and professionalism.
Our core values, encapsulated in the acronym T.R.E.N.D.S. – Teamwork, Relevance, Excellence, Novelty, Diversity, and Social Responsibility – guide our actions daily. These principles not only shape our vibrant corporate culture but also propel us to continuously enhance our operations and exceed our customers’ expectations.
By adhering to our Code of Conduct and embracing our TRENDS Core Values, we empower our team to excel and innovate, generating outstanding value for our customers, employees, and stakeholders, all while making a positive impact on society and the environment.
Table of Contents
Introduction and Purpose
MMG Brands is committed to conducting business ethically, responsibly, and in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations. This Code of Conduct serves as a guide for our employees, directors, officers, agents, contractors, consultants, and other representatives of the Company. Reflecting our core values – Teamwork, Relevance, Excellence, Diversity, and Social Responsibility (T.R.E.N.D.S.) – this document forms the foundation of our vibrant corporate culture.
Scope and Applicability
This Code of Conduct applies to all team members across MMG Brands, including employees, directors, officers, agents, contractors, consultants, and vendors. Each member is expected to adhere to the principles and guidelines set forth in this document.
Ethical Principles and Core Values - T.R.E.N.D.S.
Teamwork: We achieve more when we collaborate. Our strength lies in our collective effort, fostering a supportive and cooperative environment.
Relevance: We stay ahead by understanding and anticipating market trends, ensuring our products and strategies are always aligned with current and future demands.
Excellence: We are committed to the highest standards in all we do, striving continually for excellence in every aspect of our business.
Novelty: Innovation is at our core. We embrace creative solutions and fresh ideas to maintain our leadership in the market.
Diversity: We value and incorporate diversity throughout our operations, recognizing that a wide range of perspectives enhances creativity and decision-making.
Social Responsibility: We take our social obligations seriously, engaging in practices that benefit society and the environment.
Our Workplace
- Employee Privacy
- At MMG Brands, we deeply respect and protect the privacy of all our employees. We ensure that personal information is collected, used, and disclosed solely for legitimate business purposes or as required by applicable laws. We uphold confidentiality and require all employees to treat their colleagues’ personal information with the same respect, avoiding unauthorized sharing or discussion unless legally mandated or necessary for business needs.
- Equal Employment Opportunity
- MMG Brands is steadfast in its commitment to equality. We provide equal employment opportunities to all individuals, irrespective of race, color, religion, gender, age, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected status. Our employment practices—from hiring and promotion to compensation and termination—are based solely on merit, qualifications, and business needs.
- A Respectful Work Environment
- We are dedicated to fostering a workplace free from discrimination, harassment, and bullying. MMG Brands promotes a culture of respect, dignity, and professional integrity. Harassment in any form, including sexual harassment and any verbal or physical conduct designed to threaten, intimidate, or coerce, will not be tolerated. We encourage employees to report any such incidents to their supervisors, Human Resources, or our Compliance Officer, ensuring a safe and respectful working environment for everyone.
- Teamwork and Collaboration
- Teamwork is the cornerstone of our success at MMG Brands. We believe in the power of collaboration and encourage all employees to engage positively with their colleagues, contributing to team dynamics and sharing expertise to achieve our collective goals. Participation in team activities and open communication are crucial for nurturing a supportive and effective workplace.
- Safe and Injury-Free Workplace
- Ensuring a safe and healthy work environment is paramount at MMG Brands. We adhere strictly to all relevant health and safety regulations and best practices. Employees are expected to follow safety protocols, report any hazards, and participate actively in safety training to maintain a safe workplace for themselves and their colleagues.
- Drug-Free Workplace
- MMG Brands maintains a strict drug-free workplace policy. The use, possession, distribution, or sale of illegal drugs or unauthorized controlled substances on company premises or while conducting company business is prohibited. Drug and alcohol testing may be conducted as permitted by law.
Doing Business with Integrity
- Conflict of Interest
- At MMG Brands, we expect all team members to act in the best interests of the company at all times. Employees and representatives must avoid situations where their personal, financial, or other interests might conflict with those of MMG Brands. This includes but is not limited to holding significant financial interests in competitors, suppliers, or customers; engaging in outside employment that affects job performance; or using company resources for personal benefit. Any potential conflicts of interest should be promptly disclosed to a supervisor or our Compliance Officer for resolution.
- Gifts and Entertainment
- Gifts and entertainment in the course of business must be reasonable, appropriate, and compliant with both our policies and local laws. They should never be used to gain improper advantage or influence business decisions. Employees are required to report and seek approval for any gifts or entertainment that exceed our predefined thresholds, ensuring transparency and accountability in all our business dealings.
- Compliance with Laws and Regulations
- MMG Brands is committed to full compliance with all applicable local, national, and international laws and regulations that pertain to our operations. This includes, but is not limited to, regulations related to import/export, trade compliance, and taxation. We provide necessary training and support to ensure that employees are well-informed of the legal standards applicable in various jurisdictions, particularly where we operate internationally.
- Sales Practices and Advertising
- Our commitment to integrity extends to our sales and marketing practices. MMG Brands insists on honesty, transparency, and fairness in all advertising and sales tactics. All promotional materials must accurately represent our products and services and comply with relevant legal standards. Misleading, deceptive, or unethical practices are strictly prohibited. Additionally, we respect the intellectual property rights of others and expect our employees to uphold these standards in the creation of marketing content.
Abide by Fair Trade Principles
- Fair Competition and Anti-Trust
- MMG Brands is dedicated to fostering fair and ethical competition. We strictly adhere to all antitrust and competition laws, ensuring that our business practices do not unjustly inhibit or restrict competition. Activities such as price-fixing, market manipulation, or any other forms of anti-competitive behavior are strictly prohibited.
- Anti-Corruption and Bribery
- At MMG Brands, we maintain a zero-tolerance policy towards bribery and corruption. Compliance with the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act and all other relevant anti-bribery and anti-corruption laws is mandatory for all employees. The following actions are prohibited:
- Offering, promising, or giving any form of bribe or undue advantage to public officials, private individuals, or business entities.
- Soliciting, agreeing to receive, or accepting any form of bribe or undue advantage.
- Making facilitation payments, also known as “grease payments,” to expedite or secure business processes or government actions.
Protection of Company Assets
All MMG Brands employees who handle financial processes are responsible for maintaining accurate and transparent financial records. All financial reporting must comply with applicable laws, regulations, and accounting standards to ensure integrity and transparency in our operations.
Reporting and Whistleblower Protection
MMG Brands strongly encourages all employees to report any suspected violations of this Code of Conduct, company policies, or relevant laws and regulations. Reports can be made to supervisors, the Compliance Officer, or through our anonymous reporting channel. MMG Brands is committed to protecting the confidentiality of whistleblowers to the fullest extent possible, consistent with the need to conduct a thorough investigation.
Enforcement and Disciplinary Action
Violations of this Code of Conduct will be taken seriously and may result in disciplinary action, including termination of employment or contracts. In some instances, violations may also lead to legal consequences.
Training and Communication
MMG Brands is dedicated to continuous education on this Code of Conduct and maintaining an open dialogue about ethical concerns. Employees are required to participate in regular training sessions and are expected to thoroughly understand and follow the principles outlined in this document.
Periodic Review and Updates
This Code of Conduct will be reviewed and updated periodically to ensure it remains effective and relevant to our operations. MMG Brands will keep all employees informed of significant changes and expects compliance with any new provisions.
By implementing and enforcing this Code of Conduct, MMG Brands reaffirms its commitment to ethical business practices and a positive workplace culture. Upholding these standards is essential not only for maintaining our reputation for integrity and innovation but also for ensuring the well-being of our employees and stakeholders. This dedication supports our mission to lead the industry in trendsetting while contributing positively to a fair and transparent global market.