Next Level Apparel continues to lead the industry with innovative fabric blends and utilize combed ring-spun cotton fabrics that are heavenly soft, at a value that is second to none. For over 12 years their outstanding color palette, full spectrum of fits, and diversity of styles continue to define us as one of the top suppliers of fashion blanks in the world market.
Next Level Apparel is committed to the highest standards in every aspect of their business. Each member of their dynamic team is dedicated to delivering a superior customer service experience. Next Level Apparel follows all of the CPSIA (Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act) testing standards. Next Level's WRAP certified (Worldwide Responsible Accredited Production) factories are committed to the highest ethical standards of conduct and best quality practices. At Next Level Apparel they respect the rights of each individual and care for the environment. In addition to being sweat shop free and child labor free, we take social responsibility to the next level in everything we do.
Social Responsibility
At Next Level Apparel, we are committed to:
- -A standard of excellence in every aspect of our business and in every corner of the world
- -Ethical and responsible conduct in all of our operations
- -Respect for the rights of all individuals
- -Respect for the environment
We expect these same commitments to be shared by all manufacturers of Next Level Apparel. At a minimum, we require that all manufacturers of Next Level Apparel merchandise meet the following standards:
Child Labor
Manufacturers will not use child labor. The term “child” refers to a person younger than 15 (or 14 where local law allows) or, if higher, the local legal minimum age for employment or the age for completing compulsory education. Manufacturers employing young persons who do not fall within the definition of “children” will also comply with any laws and regulations applicable to such persons.
Involuntary Labor
Manufacturers will not use any forced or involuntary labor, whether prison, bonded, indentured or otherwise.
Coercion and Harassment
Manufacturers will treat each employee with dignity and respect, and will not use corporal punishment, threats of violence, or other forms of physical, sexual, psychological or verbal harassment or abuse.
Compensation
We expect manufacturers to recognize that wages are essential to meeting employees’ basic needs. Manufacturers will, at a minimum, comply with all applicable wage and hour laws and regulations, including those relating to minimum wages, overtime, maximum hours, piece rates and other elements of compensation; and provide legally mandated benefits. Except in extraordinary business circumstances, manufacturers will not require employees to work more than the lesser of (a) 48 hours per week and 12 hours overtime or (b) the limits on regular and overtime hours allowed by local law or, (c) where local law does not limit the hours of work, the regular work week plus 12 hours overtime. In addition, except in extraordinary business circumstances, employees will be entitled to at least one day off every seven-day period. Manufacturers will compensate employees for overtime hours at the premium rate that is legally required or, if there is no legally prescribed premium rate, at a rate at least equal to the regular hourly compensation rate. Where local industry standards are higher than applicable legal requirements, we expect manufacturers to meet the higher standards.
Nondiscrimination
Manufacturers will not discriminate in hiring and employment practices based on salary, benefits, advancement, discipline, termination or retirement, race, religion, age, nationality, social or ethnic origin, sexual orientation, gender, political opinion, or disability.
Association
Manufacturers will respect the rights of employees to associate, organize, and bargain collectively in a lawful and peaceful manner, without penalty or interference.
Health and Safety
Manufacturers will provide employees with a safe and healthy workplace in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations, ensuring, at a minimum: reasonable access to potable water and sanitary facilities, fire safety, adequate lighting, and ventilation. Manufacturers will also ensure that the same standards of health and safety are applied in any housing that they provide for employees.
Protection of the Environment
Manufacturers will comply with all applicable environmental laws and regulations.
Monitoring and Compliance
Manufacturers will authorize Next Level Apparel and its designated agents (including third parties) to engage in monitoring activities to confirm compliance with this Code of Conduct, including unannounced on-site inspections of manufacturing facilities and employer-provided housing; reviews of books and records relating to employment matters, and private interviews with employees. Manufacturers will maintain on site all documentation that may be needed to demonstrate compliance with this Code of Conduct.