Quality Certification Alliance (QCA), Chicago, has expanded its Distributor Advocacy Council (DAC) with the addition of Sydney, Nova Scotia-based Ethical Swag Inc.
The DAC is made up of industry advocates who are leading the way for brand safety through the responsible sourcing of promotional products. Distributor Advocates recognize QCA as the standard by which industry firms consistently deliver socially compliant, safe, high-quality and environmentally conscientious merchandise. Together, the DAC, QCA-accredited suppliers and end-buyers of promotional products are forming new levels of collaboration to effectively ensure supply chain transparency and control that protects brand reputations.
Ethical Swag has been interested in becoming a part of the DAC from the beginning.
“We actually began discussions before our launch because our values align very closely with the work of QCA,” said Tara Milburn, owner of Ethical Swag. “Our entire business is built on ensuring products are sourced responsibly. It is important for us to align ourselves with organizations that have shared objectives and to be a collective voice for social compliance, product safety and environmental stewardship.”
As a small distributor, however, the cost to become a Distributor Advocate was an issue. When the new participation model debuted in January, Milburn knew now was the time to jump in.
“When the announcement was made, Tara said she couldn’t wait to participate,” said Tim Brown, MAS, QCA’s executive director of operations. “An entire business developed around providing ethical branded merchandise couldn’t be a better match. The team at Ethical Swag understands that corporate responsibility, sustainability and brand safety are no longer secondary concerns for businesses, brands and organizations. They are meeting these demands head-on and creating a successful business for themselves.”
In addition to growing a business, Milburn said she now feels like she has a seat at the table so she can make a greater impact on the future of the industry.
“Collectively, we can raise awareness, and support suppliers and distributors that are focused on ensuring our industry is part of the solution—and not the problem—when it comes to social and environmental reform,” she said. “It is important that we are all accountable. In essence, this is our baseline for doing business.”
For more information about QCA, visit www.qcalliance.com.
