ESG REPORT
A MESSAGE FROM OUR LEADER
At Goldstar®, we believe meaningful change isn’t about words—it’s about action. It’s a shift in how we live, work, and think. For us, sustainability goes beyond just a goal; it’s a responsibility we take to heart. As a leader in the branded merchandise industry, we recognize the significant role we play in the environment, our communities, and the way we conduct our business. That’s why we’re focused on making meaningful, measurable changes that pave the way for a brighter and better future.
Our 2024 ESG Report showcases the real progress we’ve made—reducing waste, enhancing our products, and strengthening ethical partnerships across our supply chain. From our Made Better™ collection to FSC® -certified (Forest Stewardship Council) materials (FSC-STD-50-001) and our goal of reaching Net Zero carbon emissions by 2040, we’re always looking for ways to do better—and
push the boundaries of what’s possible.
But this mindset is not just about the planet— it’s about people. From the partnerships we nurture to the internal DEI initiatives we’re building, we’re committed to ethical sourcing, fair labor practices, and creating an environment where everyone—our employees and partners alike—can truly thrive.
As we move forward, our commitment to transparency, accountability, and continuous improvement remains stronger than ever. We’re excited to have you join us on this journey —because together, we can truly make a difference.
Global Head, Goldstar®
Heather Smartt
ABOUT GOLDSTAR®
MAKING BRANDED MERCHANDISE SIMPLE & BETTER
Goldstar® is on a mission to redefine the branded gift and promotional merchandising experience. Through our partners, we’re helping brands make simpler and smarter buying decisions, create more meaningful connections, and deliver exceptional value at every step of the way. We’re continuously working on being better at everything we do—embracing a desire for ongoing transparency, innovation and growing our focus on sustainable development. We’re committed to helping shape a better, brighter future—together.
OUR PROMISE
Everything we do is driven by a foundation of core values that guide and inspire us.
We Keep It Simple
We are all about making things simpler and better, helping brands make smarter choices every day.
We Focus On What’s Better
Our team is dedicated to shaping a better future for our planet and partners where meaningful choices and ESG practices are the standard.
We Build Meaningful Connections
Our focus is on enhancing our offerings, streamlining processes and building a stronger future together.
We Strive For Innovation And Excellence
Our team is deeply committed to delivering outstanding products, exceptional service and transparency across the business.
We Believe Together We Are Better
Our people power our business and form the foundation for building stronger partnerships.
MISSION
Inspiring positive change through conscious products and effortless simplicity.
VISION
Driving innovation in promotional products for a simpler, better future.
Simplicity
Sustainability Partnership Innovation Teamwork VALUES
OUR GLOBAL FOOTPRINT
Goldstar®’s team operates on 5 continents, reflecting our dedication to meeting the unique needs of global clients while fostering strong local connections. By combining our international presence with tailored support, we deliver exceptional products and seamless service, building a community where shared growth and success thrive.
OUR AWARDS & RECOGNITION
While we recognize there is always room to grow, we stand proud to be a five-time recipient of PPAI’s Greatest Companies to Work For. This achievement reflects the strength of our organization and motivates us to tackle the more challenging initiatives that drive meaningful change. We believe in doing the hard work necessary to improve—not just for ourselves but for everyone we touch through our partnerships. We’re dedicated to building a supportive and dynamic work environment.
We’ve also been awarded the #16 spot on the PPAI Top 100 Suppliers List and #28 on the ASI Top 40, recognized as a PPAI Greatest Company To Work For and we earned the BPMA (British Promotional Merchandise Association) Gold & Platinum Awards of 2024, reflecting our design-focused solutions. These recognitions are a testament to our ongoing dedication to responsibility within the promotional industry.
MADE #16 ON THE PPAI TOP 100 SUPPLIERS LIST
RECOGNIZED AS PPAI GREATEST COMPANY TO WORK FOR
(MZQ)
EARNED THE BPMA GOLD AND PLATINUM AWARDS OF 2024 FOR DRINKWARE (WFL) AND WRITING INSTRUMENTS (MZQ)
MADE #28 ON THE ASI TOP 40 SUPPLIERS LIST
Plat in um (WFL)
OUR COMMITMENT TO DISTRIBUTOR PARTNERSHIPS
STRONGER TOGHETER
We understand that our distributor partners are the backbone of our business. That’s why we are committed to helping you grow, while making sustainability simple and accessible.
Our ESG approach is designed to support our distributors with:
• Alternative Product Choices: The Made Better™ collection features FSCcertified, recycled, and responsibly sourced materials— offering conscious options without compromise.
• Supply Chain Transparency: From Prop 65 to REACH, RoHS, and upcoming EU sustainability laws, we ensure compliance so our partners can sell with confidence.
• Seamless Global Solutions: Our Simply Global purchase order program ensures consistency in decoration, materials, and compliance across all regions. This streamlined system allows distributors to place a single purchase order (PO) for products that need to be produced, decorated, and shipped to multiple markets. It simplifies logistics and ensures consistent branding, standardized products, and compliance worldwide.
• Branding That Makes An Impact: With innovative decoration techniques, plastic-free packaging, and a commitment to reducing emissions through low-carbon shipping partners and minimal air freight, sustainability and great design go hand in hand.
We believe that making conscious choices should feel like an opportunity, not a challenge. And by working together, we’re making it easier than ever to offer thoughtfully designed and competitively priced promotional solutions.
HIGHLIGHTING OUR COMMUNITY EFFORTS
We believe in the power of community and strive to outwardly express the love and generosity we show our team members and partners. From board memberships to volunteer programs, our people are working to shape the future of the promotional products industry and promote collaboration for positive change.
In 2024, we distributed 155 pallets of pens, notepads, bags, and more to communities in Gambia, Ghana, and Eastern Europe.
HERE’S HOW WE’RE MAKING AN EFFORT
Board Memberships. Our leaders contribute their expertise to industry boards, helping to shape policies that drive meaningful change.
Speaking Engagements. We actively share our knowledge at industry conferences, promoting innovation and the values that matter most.
Volunteer Programs & Partnerships. Through partnerships with organizations like Coastal Threads™ Collection and Ocean Bottle, we support initiatives that prioritize environmental responsibility.
• The Coastal Threads™ Collection features products made with Repreve® Our Ocean™ Recycled Plastic, repurposing ocean-bound plastics to help reduce waste.
• Ocean Bottle’s “1 for 1,000” initiative funds the collection of 1,000 plastic bottles from coastal areas for every bottle sold, working to reduce plastic pollution.
Community Contributions. We also make direct contributions to communities in need. For example, we recently donated supplies to a school in Gambia to support students and teachers. Since 2012, we’ve partnered with Spring Global Delivery Solutions to redirect misprinted products to communities that can put them to good use, rather than sending them to recycle or landfill. In 2024, we distributed 155 pallets of pens, notepads, bags, and more to communities in Gambia, Ghana, and Eastern Europe. This initiative helps reduce waste while ensuring these items serve a meaningful purpose.
These efforts reflect our ongoing commitment to outwardly expressing the generosity and community spirit we embrace internally, building stronger connections with our teams and partners.
OUR ESG STRATEGY
We’re committed to making things easier and better for the future of our partners, people, and planet. At the heart of our ESG strategy is the “Simply Better” philosophy, which guides our efforts to build a stronger future that shapes both the products we design and the partnerships we cultivate.
PEOPLE
Our team is at the heart of everything we do. We strive to foster a positive culture of collaboration and transparency, empowering our people to drive meaningful change and create a positive impact.
In 2023, we introduced Made Better™— our commitment to creating products crafted with recycled, reclaimed, or certified materials. This initiative reflects commitment to deliver simple and impactful solutions that truly make a difference.
PLANET
We are steadily doing our part to protect the future for our planet and industry through simple choices. By adopting more responsible practices, we are setting for ourselves new standards of accountability for the environmental impact we leave behind for future generations.
INTERNAL GOVERNANCE
Ethical and transparent communication is essential in our efforts. Clear, honest, and verifiable information ensures that statements about materials, environmental impact, and practices remain accurate and free from ambiguity or exaggeration. The goal is to provide clarity and accountability, fostering trust through facts rather than overstatements or misleading claims.
Honesty & Accuracy
We will always be truthful about our products and services. Our claims will be based on facts, and we will avoid any statements that could mislead or confuse our customers.
Fairness & Transparency
We are committed to fair and open communication with our customers, suppliers, and stakeholders. Our messaging will always be clear and straightforward, without hidden agendas.
Greenwashing Prevention
We actively work to avoid any misleading or exaggerated claims about the environmental impact of our products. We will strive to create clarity and transparency without using vague language or unverified claims that could confuse our customers. Instead, we’ll always provide clear details about the material composition, sourcing practices, and the environmental benefits of our products. Our commitment to greenwashing prevention is an integral part of our approach.
By following these principles, we not only ensure the integrity of our business but also build trust with our customers, suppliers, and the wider community. At Goldstar®, we are dedicated to authenticity in everything we do. We believe that this is about more than just words—it’s about action, transparency, and accountability.
OUR LATEST ACHIEVEMENTS
ACHIEVED FSC CERTIFICATION, ensuring our products come from responsibly managed forests
ACHIEVED BRONZE MEDAL from EcoVadis
OUR SUSTAINABILITY GOALS
While we are proud of how far we have come, we know there is still much to do. As we continue on our journey toward a better future, we remain dedicated to strengthening our efforts and embracing new opportunities to drive meaningful change.
Expanding our range of MADE BETTER™ product options
Increasing post-consumer RECYCLED CONTENT to 35% - 2025
Purchasing 95% FSC-CERTIFIED PRODUCTS - 2025
REMOVING PLASTIC TAPE from packaging - 2025
Achieving NET ZERO CARBON EMISSIONS - 2040
OUR GOALS & VISION FOR PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT
INNOVATIVE & RESPONSIBLE DESIGN MATERIALS
Product development is an opportunity to merge innovation, responsible sourcing, and lasting value. The focus is on creating thoughtfully designed products that reduce environmental and social impact while meeting customer needs.
Whenever possible responsibly sourced materials—such as recycled options—are prioritized. Efforts are ongoing to expand the use of these materials across the product portfolio.
FUTURE-FORWARD APPROACH
COMMITMENT TO PROGRESS
Aligning with circular economy principles is a key focus, aiming to reduce waste, reuse resources, and lower carbon footprints. Research and innovation are ongoing to integrate these principles into future product development.
Every decision considers not just the product itself, but its full lifecycle—how it’s made, what it contains, and its long-term impact. While progress has been made, the journey of continuous improvement remains at the core of this vision.
OUR COMMITMENT TO TRANSPARENCY
We strive to make transparency a key part of our approach to sourcing and product development. By implementing tools like Aware™ Fiber Tracers and Digital Product Passports, we’re taking steps to provide clear and verifiable information about the materials we use.
Starting in 2025, all our recycled bags will include a Digital Product Passport—a tool designed to offer detailed insights into the origin and journey of each product, helping customers make informed, confident choices.
In addition, our Lifecycle Assessment (LCA) Documentation provides clear metrics on the environmental impact of our products, such as carbon footprint, energy use, and material
sourcing. These initiatives help us support a more responsible supply chain and enable our customers to make thoughtful decisions.
Our transparency tools and programs are designed to grow with us, expanding to cover more product categories as we evolve. By focusing on clarity and accountability, we aim to simplify sustainability, empowering our customers to confidently support responsible practices in the promotional products industry.
TRANSPARENCY & TRACEABILITY
We believe transparency is essential—everyone, including ourselves, deserves the opportunity to make informed, thoughtful decisions about the brands they support and why they support them. That’s why we are committed to developing partnerships and conducting due diligence with companies that track the origins of our materials. Together, we’re working toward creating better products with a purpose.
We don’t just want you to take our word for it—we want to prove it. Our Traceability Initiative ensures that every fiber in our products is responsibly sourced and can be traced back to its origin.
HOW WE’RE MAKING IT HAPPEN
Aware™ Tracer: A physical marker embedded at the source of raw materials, authenticated anytime, anywhere with a specialized scanner. Also, this technology embeds traceable IDs into raw fibers, creating verified products and real-time supply chain maps.
Digital Product Passport (DPP) Starting in 2025, all our recycled bags will include a Digital Product Passport, providing accessible, detailed information about a product’s journey via a QR code.
TRANSPARENCY & TRACEABILITY
WHY THIS MATTERS
Not so long ago, with extensive supply chains, it was difficult to control and trace all the components and suppliers of a final product. This lack of transparency and traceability often contributed to greenwashing, as we couldn’t be sure of what we were buying.
That’s why solutions like Aware™ and DPP are game changers:
Digital Product Passport (DPP): Using a QR code sewn into a product’s internal label, DPP provides access to the entire supply chain—from raw materials to the finished product. This includes transparency about suppliers, materials used, and product composition.
Aware™ Tracer: This step ensures traceability even if the DPP label is lost or removed. The physical marker embedded in the product allows us to scan, authenticate the materials, and access the same information contained in the DPP at any time.
TRANSPARENCY & TRACEABILITY
GOLDSTAR® TAKING STRIDES
Goldstar® is preparing for upcoming regulations in the European market, where all textiles will be required to include a Digital Product Passport by 2027. For other product categories, regulations are expected to follow, and we’re committed to staying ahead of these
ADDITIONAL EFFORTS IN RESPONSIBLE SOURCING
• FSC® Certification: A key milestone in our journey, FSC certification ensures that our materials are sourced from forests meeting rigorous environmental, social, and economic standards. By prioritizing FSC-certified materials, we’re supporting biodiversity and reducing our impact on the planet.
• Collaboration with suppliers to implement easy-to-follow tracking systems makes it simpler than ever to verify our materials.
LOOKING AHEAD
Our tracking and tracing programs are designed to grow with us, expanding to more products over time. This commitment to transparency and traceability shows our belief in accountability and continuous improvement—because better products lead to a better future.
FSC CERTIFICATION
The Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC) sets the global standard for responsible forest management, ensuring that materials are sourced in a way that protects forests, wildlife, and communities.
WE ARE PROUD TO WHY FSC?
PURCHASE 95% OF OUR MATERIALS FROM FSC-CERTIFIED SOURCES
ENSURES ENVIRONMENTALLY APPROPRIATE PRACTICES
PROTECTS BIODIVERSITY AND ENDANGERED SPECIES
SOURCE PAPER, WOOD, AND PACKAGING FROM VERIFIED FORESTS
USE FSC-CERTIFIED MATERIALS IN OUR MADE BETTER™ COLLECTION
SUPPORTS FAIR WAGES AND ETHICAL WORKING CONDITIONS
REDUCES THE RISK OF DEFORESTATION AND HABITAT DESTRUCTION
By prioritizing FSC-certified materials, we are contributing to sustainable sourcing practices without compromising design.
SUSTAINABLE PARTNERSHIPS
We take pride in partnering with brands that share our commitment to progress. Last year, we’ve joined forces with Ocean Bottle and Repreve®, collaborating to create thoughtful products crafted from recycled materials, including ocean-bound plastics.
Through these partnerships, we’re delivering solutions that align with our mission to build a brighter and better future for our partners and the planet we share—one that prioritizes innovation, responsibility, and meaningful impact. Together, we’re shaping a better tomorrow.
SUSTAINABLE PARTNERSHIPS
“1 for 1,000” initiative funds the global collection of an equivalent of 1,000 plastic bottles in coastal areas in which plastic pollution is the worst. With its B Corp certification, Ocean Bottle aligns with our commitment to offering reusable, high-impact products that reduce the use of virgin materials.
SUSTAINABLE PARTNERSHIPS
Our exclusive Coastal Threads™ Collection is designed in Europe and meticulously crafted using certified Repreve® Our Ocean™ recycled ocean-bound plastic fibers.
Collected by hand from coastlines worldwide, plastic bottles are transformed into a durable, 300D water-resistant rPET (recycled polyethylene terephthalate) fabric, thoughtfully designed with smart features for the everyday traveler.
MATERIALS AND RESOURCING
CHOOSING BETTER MATERIALS FOR A BETTER FUTURE
Top value products start with responsible materials. At Goldstar®, we carefully select materials to help reduce waste, minimize environmental impact, and support a circular economy.
Our key material commitments include:
Recycled Plastics & rPET: Transforming plastic waste into valuable pens, bottles and bags
FSC-Certified Wood & Paper: Ensuring responsible forestry and paper production
BPA FREE
BPA-Free & Non-Toxic Materials: Eliminating harmful chemicals like PFAS and PVC from our products
By choosing the right materials, we are creating products that not only look good but do less harm to the planet, our customers, and future generations.
Metals, Recycled Aluminum & Stainless Steel: Durable, reusable alternatives to single-use plastic
Recycled Cotton: Reducing textile waste by repurposing cotton into products
Future Innovations:
• Digital Product Passports (2025) – Track data and material origins
• Aware™ Tracers – Verifiable, traceable recycled materials
• Compostable Options – Exploring new innovations in packaging
GOALS AND VISION FOR PACKAGING
We envision a future where all packaging is efficient and free of unnecessary waste. Our efforts focus on reducing packaging materials, such as shipping in bulk without a gift box, and exploring innovative solutions that align with our Made Better™ philosophy.
These changes ensure our packaging supports both environmental and operational goals.
GOALS AND VISION FOR PACKAGING
In a push to constantly improve our packaging, our commitment to responsible packaging means we’re not just reducing waste—we’re also creating better, more effective solutions for our distributors and customers.
FSC PLASTIC CONTENT PACKAGING
99% 100% 90%
Implement 99% FSC certified packaging.
Remove 100% of problematic plastics such as Polystyrene and PVC from our packaging.
Achieving 90% recycled plastic content in our plastic packaging.
KEY PACKAGING IMPROVEMENTS
We’re constantly enhancing our packaging to deliver better solutions for our customers while reducing our environmental footprint.
Materials: A growing percentage of our packaging is made from recycled or certified materials.
Streamlined Designs: Packaging designs have been optimized to minimize unnecessary materials, reducing waste and improving efficiency.
Tapeless Packaging Solutions:
• Fast Assembly & Shipping: Tapeless, easy-to-close boxes enhance efficiency at both production and shipping lines.
• Cost Savings: Eliminates the need for tape and tape machines, reducing both material and labor costs.
• Improved Work Environment: Less manual work simplifies operations for our team members.
• Optimized Transport Costs: We’re always looking for ways to make packaging more efficient, both inbound (from factory to production floor) and outbound (from production floor to customer). For inbound packaging, this includes shipping items in bulk without gift boxes and reducing plastic polybags. On the outbound side, we’re working closely with our production teams to ensure we’re balancing durability with cost-effective shipping solutions.
By investing in these improvements, we’re not only reducing waste but also creating packaging solutions that are efficient, cost-effective, and aligned with our commitment to operational excellence.
GOALS & VISION FOR A BETTER ENVIRONMENT
Discover our mission to not only improve how we operate but also inspire meaningful progress in the promotional products industry. We believe that real change starts with understanding, which is why we’ve introduced Lifecycle Assessments (LCA). These assessments help us measure our environmental impact, giving us the clarity we need to set impactful goals and take purposeful action.
Our vision is simple but powerful: reduce waste, make better use of resources, and explore innovative ideas that benefit both people and the planet. By working smarter and setting a higher standard, we’re paving the way for a future that’s both responsible and inspiring.
And we’re not doing this alone. We’re inviting our customers and partners to join us on this journey. Together, we can create a brighter, more balanced future—one thoughtful step at a time.
CARBON EMISSION GOALS
NET ZERO BY 2040
Reducing Scope 1, 2 and 3 carbon emissions is at the heart of our brand’s commitments. Through efficiency improvements and collaboration, we are actively investing in cleaner technologies and smarter processes to drive measurable reductions in our carbon footprint. We are committed to tackling emissions headon by being transparent about our progress and actively reducing our output when possible. This includes areas such as fuel utilization, electricity consumption, natural gas production, transportation emissions, and the carbon impact of purchased goods and services. These actions reflect our responsibility to combat climate change and lead by example in our industry.
ACTIONS TO REDUCE CO2 EMISSIONS
KEY ACTIONS TO DRIVE CHANGE
OPTIMIZED PRODUCTION PROCESSES
We are committed to making intentional choices that reduce our carbon footprint and contribute to a greener future. Using Lifecycle Assessments (LCA)—a method to evaluate the environmental impact of a product—we’ve established a solid baseline to guide our efforts and ensure continuous, meaningful progress.
We have relocated some of our production facilities to the Czech Republic to streamline processes and reduce transportation emissions within the EU market. Additionally, we are implementing efficiency improvements in our Mexico facilities to further reduce our overall environmental impact. We are also continuing to invest in advanced machinery and technology to further minimize energy consumption and enhance operational efficiency as part of our ongoing efforts to lower our overall carbon footprint.
STREAMLINED LOGISTICS
By optimizing shipping methods and consolidating deliveries, we’re working to minimize transportation emissions.
MATERIAL SELECTION
We prioritize responsibly sourced materials, to help reduce emissions linked to extraction and production.
ENERGY EFFICIENCY UPGRADES
Significant upgrades to our facilities and systems have been put in place to improve energy efficiency across our operations.
PRODUCT SAFETY
Product safety isn’t just a checkbox—it’s a core part of how we build trust with you and your customers. We’re committed to staying ahead of the curve, ensuring that every product we deliver meets the highest standards. It’s all about giving you peace of mind and making sure the products you rely on are safe and responsible.
HOW WE ENSURE SAFETY
Ensuring product safety is a top priority, and rigorous testing is conducted to identify and eliminate high-risk materials, including restricted substances. Compliance with international safety standards—such as REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restriction of Chemicals) and RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) in the EU, as well as CPSIA (Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act) in North America— ensures products meet strict regulatory requirements.
By proactively adhering to these globally recognized safety measures, products are designed to meet the highest industry standards, providing confidence to customers and end users across all markets.
PRODUCT SAFETY
OUR PRODUCTS ARE PFAS AND PVC FREE AND COMPLY WITH KEY GLOBAL REGULATIONS, INCLUDING:
• Prop 65 (California, USA): Ensuring products are free from harmful chemicals, including lead, cadmium, BPA, and phthalates.
• REACH (EU): Regulating the use of hazardous substances to protect human health and the environment.
• RoHS (EU): Restricting hazardous materials in electrical products.
• Triman & Recycling Labeling (EU): Supporting responsible waste sorting and recycling practices.
• Electrical & Battery Safety Regulations (US & EU): Ensuring compliance with safety standards for electrical and battery-operated products.
• Food Contact Safety Regulations (US & EU): Meeting stringent safety standards for materials intended for food contact.
• Packaging Safety Regulations: Ensuring all packaging materials comply with safety requirements.
PRODUCT SAFETY
We keep a close eye on changes to these regulations so we can adapt quickly and maintain compliance everywhere we do business.
OUR PROMISE:
We’re not just focused on meeting today’s standards; we’re always looking ahead. By continuously improving our safety measures and staying transparent about our processes, we give you the confidence to trust and recommend our products. At Goldstar®, product safety is about more than compliance—it’s about creating products you can stand behind with pride.
PRODUCT SAFETY
WORKING WITH SUPPLIERS:
We only work with suppliers who share our commitment to safety and integrity. Every supplier we partner with must:
• Pass independent third-party audits that assess compliance with European (EU) and American laws, as well as internal audit standards that often exceed regulatory requirements. These audits follow globally recognized frameworks, including SMETA Best Practice Version 6.1, BSCI, and SA8000.
• Undergo assessments covering key ethical and social responsibility principles, as outlined in the Cimpress Supplier Business Conduct guidelines. These include prohibitions on child and forced labor, fair working hours, workplace safety, environmental responsibility, living wages, anti-discrimination policies, and ethical business practices.
• Provide chemical and physical safety test reports for all products and components we purchase.
• Share full material disclosures to ensure complete transparency about product contents.
• Ensure full supply chain transparency, especially for regulated materials.
• Provide certifications for recycled content, ensuring claims are backed by evidence.
• Sign our Supplier Code of Conduct, agreeing to uphold ethical labor practices, environmental responsibility, and safety standards.
STAYING AHEAD OF COMPLIANCE CHALLENGES
Regulations change, and we’re always ready to adapt.
Here’s how we’re tackling new challenges in 2025:
NAVIGATING NEW RULES:
• Addressing EU GPSR, PFAS reporting, the EU Battery Regulation, and more.
• Updating product labels and improving traceability to meet the latest standards.
IMPROVING OUR PROCESSES:
• We’re digitizing compliance documentation to make things easier and faster.
• A new consolidated Product Information Management (PIM) system is helping us stay organized and proactive.
ETHICAL SOURCING AND HUMAN RIGHTS
Ethics and integrity are at the core of how we source our products. We work hard to ensure every part of our supply chain reflects our values.
SUPPORTING HUMAN RIGHTS:
We require regular third-party audits to confirm that our top suppliers uphold social and human rights standards. These audits follow globally recognized frameworks, including SMETA Best Practice Version 6.1, BSCI, and SA8000, ensuring compliance with both legal requirements and internal best practices that often exceed regulatory standards.
Our Supplier Code of Conduct, built on the Social Accountability Standard 8000 (SA8000), reinforces our commitment to conducting business legally, ethically, and with integrity. These assessments cover critical human rights principles, including prohibitions on child and forced labor, fair working hours, health and safety, environmental responsibility, living wages, anti-discrimination policies, and ethical business practices. If there’s an issue, we act immediately to make it right.
RESPONSIBLE SOURCING:
Our Supplier Code of Conduct promotes full supply chain transparency, particularly for regulated and restricted raw materials. We require suppliers to provide complete material disclosures and certifications for recycled content, ensuring that all claims are backed by verifiable evidence.
By holding ourselves and our suppliers to these rigorous standards, we are committed to providing responsibly sourced products you can trust.
BUILDING AWARENESS THROUGH TRAINING AND COLLABORATION
We believe compliance isn’t just a process—it’s part of our culture. That’s why we focus on training and collaboration.
TRAINING OUR TEAMS:
• Employees get regular training to understand our compliance goals and ethical standards.
• It’s how we connect everyone to the bigger picture.
PARTNERING WITH SUPPLIERS:
We work closely with our suppliers to ensure transparency in areas such as ink safety certifications and composition disclosures.
Product safety is our top priority—for every product, every time. We follow a risk-based approach to third-party testing, evaluating chemical composition, electrical safety (where applicable), and other critical factors in accordance with EU, North American, and Australian regulations and standards.
Our testing process is further supported by supplier-provided documentation, including self-declarations confirming the presence or absence of regulated substances. This ensures compliance and accountability at every stage.
Beyond safety, we take meaningful steps to ensure that our products are responsibly sourced and manufactured in alignment with our ethical and sustainability commitments.
Through ongoing collaboration and training with our suppliers, we reinforce responsible practices across our supply chain—so you can trust that every Goldstar® product is made with integrity.
WHY PRODUCT SAFETY MATTERS
At the end of the day, it’s all about trust. By prioritizing safety and compliance at every step, we ensure the products we deliver are reliable, safe, and meet your expectations.
OUR COMMITMENT:
• We’re working to eliminate chemicals targeted for restriction and keep detailed records for every product.
• This proactive approach helps us stay ahead of regulations and build longterm trust.
RECYCLING & WASTE REDUCTION
We strive to design products that prioritize recycled materials and reusability. Our focus is on extending the lifecycle of materials and reducing what ends up in landfills. These efforts are part of our larger goal to build a culture of responsibility.
OUR CODE OF CONDUCT
We are committed to acting with integrity, accountability, and respect in every aspect of our business. We also strive to create a workplace where our people can thrive and to partner with manufacturers who care about the planet and its people. Our Code of Conduct helps guide us all— whether you’re a new team member, a senior leader, or a supplier—so we can all stay true to the values of integrity and respect in everything we do.
FOR OUR SUPPLIERS:
We hold our suppliers to high standards, holding them accountable to:
• Follow all legal, ethical, and environmental standards
• Provide a safe, harassment-free workplace
• Eliminate forced and child labor, bribery, and corruption
• Keep accurate records and make timely payments
• Pay fair wages and maintain transparency
When our suppliers align with these standards, they help us build strong, lasting relationships.
If these standards aren’t met, it could lead to ending the partnership.
OUR CODE OF CONDUCT
LEADERSHIP
BY EXAMPLE:
Our managers play a crucial role in bringing our values to life. They lead with integrity, create a supportive environment, and make sure everyone feels safe to speak up and share their thoughts. This shared commitment strengthens the ethical foundation of Goldstar®.
SPEAK UP! PROGRAM:
If something doesn’t feel right, we’ve got your back. Our confidential “Speak Up!” program offers employees the chance to report concerns anonymously—whether through a toll-free number or online.
ENVIRONMENTAL RESPONSIBILITY:
We care about our planet and expect our suppliers to do the same. That means following environmental laws, managing emissions, and ensuring that the materials we use are responsibly sourced.
OUR CODE OF CONDUCT
OUR COMMITMENT TO ETHICAL SOURCING:
Every part of our business reflects our values, and that includes our supply chain. Suppliers are asked to provide:
• Third-party social audits
• Chemical safety test reports
• Compliance declarations
• Material disclosures
• Certificates for recycled materials
These steps help ensure that everything we do meets the highest standards of responsibility.
TRAINING & ACCOUNTABILITY:
Ethical behavior starts with training. We ensure that everyone at Goldstar® understands our Code of Conduct and knows how to apply it in their dayto-day work. Suppliers are also expected to report any violations or concerns immediately, so we can address them together.
RESPONSIBLE SOURCING:
We take pride in sourcing products responsibly. That means suppliers must disclose details about their supply chains, especially when it comes to raw materials with restrictions, ensuring that our products are made with integrity every step of the way.
We’re all in this together working to create a business that’s good for people, partners, and the planet. By living up to our Code of Conduct, we’re building a brighter, more ethical future.
DATA SECURITY
KEEPING YOUR DATA SECURE AND PRIVATE:
At Goldstar®, protecting personal information—whether it’s for our team members or customers—is a 24/7 effort. Safeguarding this data isn’t just about meeting legal requirements; it’s about earning and keeping your trust.
Our Security and Privacy teams work to ensure data protection through strict compliance with privacy laws, awareness campaigns to address risks like phishing, and global Information Security and Acceptable Use Policies. We also train our staff annually to treat colleagues’ data with the same care as their own, only sharing it when it’s absolutely necessary for legal or operational reasons.
To uphold these standards, we’ve implemented comprehensive policies, regular training, and alignment with global data protection frameworks. We are PCIDSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard) v4.0 compliant, follow the NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology) Cybersecurity Framework 2.0, and adhere to a privacy practices baseline. Our Enterprise Information Security Policy guides teams in safeguarding data and addressing any gaps, with exceptions strictly overseen by leadership.
Before accessing our network, all employees, interns, and contractors go through a thorough pre-hire screening process.
Our commitment to security also extends to payment data. We hold a Certificate of PCI-DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard) Merchant Compliance from SecurityMetrics, confirming that we meet the highest standards for preventing credit card theft and fraud. This certification is maintained through annual self-assessments and quarterly vulnerability scans.
By staying proactive and vigilant, we’re dedicated to protecting what matters most-your privacy and trust .
DIVERSITY, EQUITY & INCLUSION PHILOSOPHY
We’re committed to maintaining an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued, supported, and empowered to succeed. DEI isn’t just a goal—it’s part of how we operate every day.
In June 2023, we rolled out our DEI Policy to further promote a welcoming, diverse, and discrimination-free workplace. To ensure accountability, we’re actively tracking metrics like global gender comparisons, gender breakdowns by location and function, age distributions, and global tenure. Within Goldstar®, we are proud of employing 69% female and 31% male employees. We have also made it a conscious effort to balance the number of male to female managers globally.
We’re proud of the strides we’ve made. This demonstrates that we’re achieving real, measurable results—not just setting lofty goals. We are also committed to promoting diversity across our organization and creating jobs and working conditions for people around the world. By prioritizing inclusivity and equity, we ensure that our workforce reflects the global communities we serve.
Looking ahead, we’re strengthening our people-focused initiatives. In 2025, we aim to conduct our next Global Engagement Survey, building on previous years of employee feedback to shape our goals and reflect the evolving needs of our team.
We’re also dedicated to providing opportunities for growth and well-being:
• GROW Performance Development Program and Education Assistance for career advancement.
• Robust vacation/PTO policies to support work/life balance.
• Initiatives like observing World Mental Health Day , sharing resources such as the Employee Assistance Program (EAP), and emphasizing the importance of mental health in CEO communications.
We see diversity as a strength and are committed to making meaningful, trackable efforts to sustain it. DEI is more than a philosophy; it’s woven into the fabric of who we are.
COMPANY CULTURE
Our inclusive culture is the heart of everything we do. Our team, speaking dozens of languages and representing a range of perspectives, collaborates daily to drive success and innovation.
Our team is as diverse as the backgrounds they come from. From entrylevel talent bringing fresh ideas and unique viewpoints to the industry, to seasoned professionals shaping the history and legacy of Goldstar®, each person contributes to an environment that thrives on growth and shared experiences.
Being global and having a remote flexible structure in some applicable sectors and departments, has opened the door to a global talent pool, allowing us to attract the very best without geographical limits. This flexibility doesn’t just benefit our operations—it creates more adaptable working conditions for those who need it most. Whether it’s parents balancing work and family, individuals from rural areas, or persons with disabilities, we’re proud to offer a workplace where everyone can thrive.
Our culture isn’t something we merely talk about; it’s something we build every day with every choice. It reflects how we treat not only our team members but also our business partners, customers, and the broader community.
STAFF OVERVIEW & STATISTICS
69%
21% WOMEN REMOTE-FIRST PROFESSIONALS
Goldstar® is a global company powered by a diverse team of 171 professionals across 10 countries. We have a global presence with offices in Tunis, Jamaica, Tennessee (USA), and other key locations worldwide. Our inclusive culture shines through in our multilingual workforce and collaborative spirit, driving us to deliver exceptional results every day.
We are proud to be part of a collaborative network that demonstrates measurable progress:
Our team’s diversity and dedication are key drivers of our success. Together, we’re building a company where collaboration and inclusivity lead the way. 171
• 69% of team members are women, with 54% in management roles, showcasing real, impactful outcomes.
• In key locations like Tunis and the US, we share in the achievement of an impressive 50-50 male-to-female manager ratio.
We’re actively tracking and analyzing workforce metrics, including gender distribution by location and function, age demographics, and tenure.
• 21% of our workforce is remote-first, emphasizing flexibility and accessibility.
