In a corporate philosophy of accountability, social and ecological concerns are reflected throughout the decision-making process. Especially in this age of accelerated commercialism, sustainability is essential to any long-term corporate strategy. For a successful multinational organization such as HUGO BOSS, responsibility towards society, the environment and the organization’s employees is a pledge they are duty-bound to make and uphold.

In preparing Code of Conduct, HUGO BOSS has created a binding set of rules which will be of assistance when dealing with the challenges, both ethical and legal, that arise in the course of day-to-day work. With this code of Conduct all employees of HUGO BOSS across the world are obliged to adhere to maintaining ethical business practices, fair conduct and compliance with all laws - without exception.

Another principle affecting corporate responsibility at HUGO BOSS entails ensuring that animals are treated properly and considerately. The new administrative complexes in Metzingen and Switzerland illustrate how they have put environmental principles into practice. Their “intelligent” architecture and building technology - including the double façade which uses thermal lift to promote natural ventilation - help to minimize energy requirements. Cooling ceilings serve as environmentally-friendly air conditioners, while state-of-the-art solar panels meet a substantial part of the buildings’ energy needs.

By providing for children, HUGO BOSS is actively shouldering its share of this responsibility. After having supported children’s charities for several years, the company - in conjunction with the children’s aid organization UNICEF - began building schools in Africa’s poorest countries during 2007. Within the framework of this project schools in Angola, Malawi, Rwanda, Mozambique, Zimbabwe and South Africa have been opened or renovated and supplied with new teaching materials. Training is also being provided for the teachers.