At the A1 Group, we remain firmly committed to responsible and future-oriented business practices. We see ESG not as a trend, but as a key framework for long-term value, resilience, and accountability.

Understanding the pivotal role procurement plays in shaping sustainable and ethical supply chains, we are launching a new internal training initiative: “Responsible Buyers Training: Integrating ESG in Purchasing.” This program is designed to equip our purchasing teams with the tools and knowledge to align procurement decisions with our core values and regulatory expectations.

We Focus on Procurement
Purchasing teams are uniquely positioned to drive change. Every purchasing decision has ripple effects through our supply chains, impacting not only costs and quality but also our environmental footprint, social responsibility, and governance standards. By embedding ESG criteria into procurement processes, buyers help ensure resilient, responsible supply chains that align with our company’s broader sustainability targets.

Training Structure and Schedule
This training is designed and delivered in three focused sessions, each building on the previous one:

Block 1: ESG and Big Corporate Goals: Strategic Importance of Involving the Purchasing
This session introduces the fundamentals of corporate responsibility, highlighting how personal and business decisions intertwine. We explore the regulatory landscape, compliance requirements, and evolving expectations from customers and shareholders around ESG.

Block 2: ESG as a Role of Purchasing: Direct and Indirect Contribution
Here, we dive into the specific ways purchasing teams can directly and indirectly influence ESG outcomes, shedding light on their instrumental role within the company’s sustainability framework. We guide the teams through the concepts of Supplier Segmentation, ESG risk classification, Internal Carbon Price (ICP), and build further on our JAC Programs (supply chain audits & corrective actions, Supplier Engagement Program)

Block 3: ESG as a Tender Criterion: Embedding ESG in Key Tenders
The final session focuses on practical application — how to integrate ESG criteria into tenders, define key procurement opportunities, and utilise ESG KPIs. We’ll also review real-life tender examples to uncover challenges and best practices.

The Way Forward
This first round of training is tailored for our Group purchasing team to build a strong ESG foundation. Over the coming months, purchasing teams across our group footprint will also receive ESG-focused training, ensuring our entire buyer segment moves forward together toward a more responsible future. As of 2025, this training series will be a regular annual training for our buyers.

Leading the Change
ESG integration is a journey, and it starts with informed, empowered decision-makers. We look forward to seeing all our procurement colleagues actively participate, bringing sustainability to the heart of our purchasing practices.

Let’s make responsible buying the norm!