This is the solution to requests for sustainability data from your supply chain

First of all: why are all these customers asking for your data in the first place? The fact is that large companies are required to report on the sustainability of their entire supply chain. That means they need insight into what their suppliers - like your company - are doing in terms of environmental, social responsibility and governance.  

In short: they do not ask this out of curiosity, but because they need it for their own reporting requirements.  

All those data requests create chaos 

The big challenge: everyone works in their own format. The result: 

- you answer the same questions over and over again; 

- different customers get inconsistent answers; 

- it costs you time and frustration; 

- and you are not sure if you are providing the right info. 

The solution is here 

The solution to all this chaos? That's the VSME, a standardised way of organising your sustainability information. Instead of reacting ad hoc, collect your data once according to a recognised European standard.  

Working according to the VSME has great advantages. You only have to draw up your VSME report once and use it for several clients. It also shows that you take sustainability seriously. Good news: the VSME is also recognised by more and more parties.  Still dizzy? These are the most frequently asked questions about VSME.

The benefits 

1. you improve your relationship with your clients because you can proactively send your VSME report. 

2. you work more efficiently: one report, multiple applications. 

3. you stand out from competitors who fiddle with loose Excel sheets. 

4. new opportunities arise as banks, investors and customers see that you are organised on sustainability. 

To get started with your VSME reporting >

There will only be more requests 

New European legislation means customer queries are only increasing. If you invest in a structured approach like VSME now, you will be ahead of the game. The question is not whether you'll have to deal with sustainability reporting, but how well prepared you are. Our 'First help with VSME article' will help you get started.