2. THE CORPORATE BUSINESS COMMUNITY

Section 2.9 - Joint Ventures / Partnerships / Subsidiaries

Principles
2.9.P.1
When entering into and throughout the duration of joint ventures and partnerships, the company takes into account the ethical implications as well as the financial implications of those relationships.

2.9.P.2
All parts of the company, associated companies, divisions and units and subsidiary companies abide by the same codes of ethics and conduct as the parent company as a minimum standard.

2.9.P.3
The company accepts a responsibility to promote its codes of ethics and of conduct with licensees and franchisees.

Criteria
2.9.C.1
The company recognizes that unethical behaviour by joint venture and other partners reflects on its own reputation and integrity, and the company has a mechanism to address such unethical behaviour.

2.9.C.2
The company has a clearly stated policy in regard to the monitoring of the application of codes of ethics and conduct by licensees and franchisees.

Bench Marks
2.9.B.1
The company has guidelines to assess and determine its course of action when a violation of ethical codes is perpetrated by a partner or subsidiary. These guidelines include, but are not limited to, challenging the partner or terminating the relationship.

2.9.B.2
The company takes immediate steps to address violations of codes of ethics and conduct by licensees and franchisees. The company only terminates the relationship as a last resort.