Educate Engage Enable

Annual Report 2016

Apparel Group CSR

Apparel Group CSR Annual Report 2016

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About this report Welcome to the Apparel Group CSR Annual Report 2016.This report is an update on our CSR

performance for the year 2016. The various initiatives undertaken give an insight into our strategy and

direction as we move forward. As per Apparel Group CSR Preamble Educate Engage Enable, the

report sets out our approach, objectives, and progress on each of the three core impact areas for

CSR: Education, Employees Engagement and Environment for People, Prosperity and Planet.

In our CSR Strategy Framework, to make a sustainable and substantial impact, we have made all

attempts to match societal needs with Apparel Group core competency and capabilities. This year we

also reviewed and updated our CSR Vision, Mission, Policy and Strategy according to the group

philosophy.

The year 2016 has been a year of achievements. Apparel Group organized United Nations

International Day of Yoga 2016, Dubai in which more than 14000 people participated and learned

Yoga from Yogrishi Swami Ramdev. We reached out to more than 7000 customers to raise awareness

and funds for Beat Breast Cancer Project and successfully raised approximately AED 1357980/-

towards prevention, cure and treatment.

As a part of The ‘Reading Nation’ Campaign launched by His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin

Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, Apparel Group

donated 60620 books worth AED 3,331,563.00 to Sharjah City for Humanitarian services.We recycled

more than 320 tons of packaging waste to reduce our carbon footprints and to save environment. We

successfully engaged more than 1203 employees for 24658 man-hours in social service and

reached out to more than 54524 beneficiaries through our various community initiatives.

In 2016 Apparel Group was conferred with many prestigious Certifications, Honours and Awards.

Apparel Group has been presented World COB CSR Certification for its commitment towards CSR

and sustainability. Mrs. Sima Ved, Vice Chairperson, Apparel Group was conferred with prestigious

The Global Gift Philanthropreneur Award for her exemplary contributions in the field of Corporate

Social Responsibility. Apparel Group was also presented with Dubai Chamber CSR Label 2016 for

the 4th consecutive year.

Apparel Group also made its COP (Communication on Progress) for United Nations Global Compact

to present our achievements against protection of Human and Labour Rights, Anti-Corruption and

Environment Protection.

The main components of the report includes a brief on CSR Preamble, various initiatives taken for

stakeholders engagement (Employees, Brands, Customers, Suppliers and Vendors), environment,

relationship building and communication of CSR commitment and practice to external stakeholders.

The report also has tried to provide data on tangible indicators to measure our CSR performance.

We encourage feedback from our stakeholders invite you to provide us with comments and reviews on

this report and our CSR performance through the following channel:

email: apparelcsr@appareluae.com

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CSR Preamble: Educate Engage Enable

Apparel Group CSR Preamble is Educate Engage Enable. These words introduce and express the

purpose and underlying philosophy behind our CSR. Though the preamble is self-explanatory, it

encompasses a broad meaning as follows:

Educate: Educate people (internal and external stakeholders) and create awareness on key social

issues through knowledge sharing and communication.

Engage: Engage people in various social activities and encourage them to take productive and

responsible actions towards society.

Enable: Enable people by providing empowering and healthy environment to be independent and

support community around us.

Illustration 1: Apparel Group CSR Preamble

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Contents

1. Major Impact……………………………………………………………..4 2. CSR Policy………………………………………………………………..5

A. CSR Vision and Mission

B. CSR Policy

C. CSR Strategy Framework

3. Education & Engagement………………………………………………7

A. Enable and Empower for Inclusive and Sustainable Growth

B. Educate and Engage to Beat Breast Cancer

4. Enabling Environment………………………………………………….17 A. Reduce, Reuse and Recycle Waste

5. Give as we Grow……………………………………………………….. ..17 A. Product Donation

B. Fund Raising

6. Engagement with External Stakeholders……………………………25

A. Representing commitment in CSR Forums

B. Media Coverage

7. Awards and Accolades……………………………………………….. .34 A. Reward from Friends of Cancer Patients B. Certificate of appreciation from Rak Terry Fox Run C. World COB CSR Certification D. Dubai Chamber CSR Label Award 2016 E. The Global Gift Philanthropreneur Award

8. Tangible Achievements ……………………………………………….38

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Major Impact

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CSR Policy

A. CSR Vision and Mission

Apparel Group has revised its CSR Vision, Mission, policy, strategy as follows and the same has been

updated on the website as well.

Our Vision - To be recognized as the most responsible company.

Our Mission - Be committed to sustainable actions and contribute meaningfully to

Triple Bottom Line (social, economic and environment) performance.

Our Values - Integrity, Respect and Recognition, Passion for Excellence, Working Together.

Daily Purpose - Be Responsible in every step.

B. CSR Policy

Our CSR Philosophy is to “Make People Grow’

Apparel Group strongly believes to make people grow all along its growth trajectory. This is possible

with continuing commitment by the company to behave ethically and contribute economically, improve

the quality of life of the workforce, their families, local community and above all the society at large,

while protecting the environment.

Preamble

Educate, Engage and Enable

Educate: Educate people (Internal and external stakeholders) and create awareness on various key

social issues through knowledge sharing and communication. (Profit)

Engage: Engage people in various social activities and encourage them to take productive and

responsible actions towards society. (People)

Enable: Enable people by providing empowering and healthy environment to be independent and

support community around us. (Planet)"

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Apparel Group CSR Policy is SPEED

S-Service- To adopt a corporate strategy that empowers us to serve needs of the society around us

besides providing the best in industry service to the customers and to create a mutually benefiting

environment through collective endeavor of company, employees customers and community .

Productivity - To support and incorporate development initiatives /CSR projects an integral part of our

business and make them result oriented. To encourage the development of human resource through

provision for Education, Training and Skill Development to empower them and be productive.

E-Efficiency - To implement social initiatives in our areas of operations to ensure maximum efficiency

through close monitoring and achieving benchmarks set for Triple Bottom Line

E-Effectiveness - To have partnership with various institutions/stakeholders for CSR programmes

implementation and to assess and measure the effectiveness of the projects against the performance

indicators and the targets set.

D-Dedication/Commitment- To dedicate and commit our CSR initiatives towards national agenda on

sustainable development and growth through adoption of best practices across all our Brands, supply

chains, distribution channels, vendors and suppliers and community development programmes. To

encourage and motivate our employees to fully embrace the CSR programmes, champion social

causes and support the company in its responsibility and accountability to the community in which it

operates.

We Believe - Right First Time, Every Time

C. CSR Strategy Framework

1 Apparel Group will take up projects which match organizational capability with societal needs.

2 We will leverage upon the skills and capabilities of different organizations.

3 We will create CSR environment within the business by encouraging stakeholder’s

involvement, participation and engagement.

4 We will benchmark the health of each initiative comprehensively across the criteria to know and

assess its relevance.

5 Apparel Group will continuously analyze progress made, build on the strengths and fill the gaps

by refining the catalytic systems and processes.

6 We will continue to focus on the chosen programmes/ projects/ activities to make long term

impact on inclusive growth and sustainable development.

7 We will create awareness on being responsible and reflect commitment towards society in

deeds.

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Education & Engagement

A. Enable and Empower for Inclusive and Sustainable Growth

“Box a smile” - Engaging customers to educate war affected children

Holy Month of Ramadan is the time to do good, give back and empower people. This Ramadan ,

Call It Spring Brand of Apparel Group decided to make a difference in the lives of war affected

children and so successfully launched a campaign “ Box a smile” to spread happiness and lit a light

of hope in them . The campaign was launched on the 19th June 2016 for 20 days in partnership with

UAE Red Crescent , educating , engaging , enabling customers towards helping Syrian children in

need.

Box a smile initiative engaged customers at Call It Spring stores to choose and donate any one of

three boxes designed and filled with different daily use items like books and crayons, toiletries and

woolens for three different age groups, Infants , Toddlers and preschool children. The total 1604

boxes were donated by more than 1200 customers and 380 Apparel Group employees. These were

handed over to UAE Red crescent for delivering these to the children in refugee’s camp. Donors were

also encouraged to send a personalized message to the children through a note on the box.

Illustration 2: Box a smile donated by customer with a message

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Illustration 3: Handing over ceremony of Boxes of Smile to UAE Red Crescent.

Developing entrepreneurship among special needs children

The purpose of providing work opportunity to differently challenged or special needs youth is not only

to provide jobs but also engagement in the wide variety of activities that it offers helps young people to

develop the potential, creativity, talents, knowledge, skills, and attitudes that are required in the

market. R& B started a pilot project to build entrepreneurship skills in special needs youth.

The brand is supporting special need girls from Sharjah City for Humanitarian services in selling

products made by them at its stores. These products mainly include different type of accessories. Out

of the 50 pieces of different hand bracelets that were provided, the R&B team could successfully sell

nearly 41 pieces from the point of sale counter. All the sale proceeds will go towards enhancing the

skills of these girls. In this way brand contributes to closing the gap between the competences of

special needs youth and market for their products to help them develop and continue their enterprise.

Illustration 4: Selling products made by special needs children

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Engage in Yoga for healthy and happy life - International Day of Yoga

On December 11 in 2014, the United Nations General Assembly declared June 21st as the

International Day of Yoga. Encouraged by the success of the IYD 2015, this year again the mega

Yoga Day was organized in association with Indian Consulate General and Dubai Sports Council on

18th June at two venues in the Dubai World Centre. The Chief Guest of this event was Yogrishi

Swami Ramdev who not only taught yoga to people but also shared its health benefits. More than 104

nationalities with 14000 participants including nearly 560 of Apparel Group employees performed yoga

with great enthusiasm and thrill. The participants included students from schools, local universities,

corporates, members of the diplomatic community, Dubai Government Authorities, as well as the large

community living in Dubai and the Northern Emirates.

Illustration 5: People from different nationalities learning and performing yoga

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Universal Children’s Day Celebration for children in need

On the occasion of Universal Children’s Day, one of our brands BabyCenter organized clothes

collection drive for children in need in Sharjah Grand Centrale on 18th & 19th November.

Through this Drive, Children from local community were motivated to donate their lightly worn clothes

and toys in good condition so that these can be used by children who are underprivileged and do not

have much of these, especially for winters. Besides supporting children in need with clothing, the idea

was also to inculcate the habit of sharing, giving and caring among children who have.

As our way of saying thank you to people, for the first 2 hours of this donation BabyCenter gave 100 AED gift vouchers to every customer who donated, for their kind gesture. Total 10 cartons of clothes were donated which were delivered to Sharjah Red Crescent so that it reaches the right beneficiary.

Illustration 6: Mr. Mohammed Al Hamadi, Manager Red Crescent

receiving donations from Children

Education for refugees - Stationary collection drive

Apparel Group participated in one of the biggest Stationery Collection Drive from 19TH September to

11th October 2016 , organized by Charitable organization “Education 4 all” in association with Red

Crescent and Dubai Chamber’s Engage Dubai . More than 136 employees from all the support

functions participated and donated more than 371.40 kgs of new stationery, reinforcing their

commitment to Educate Engage Enable Syrian refugee’s children.

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Illustration 7: Employees participating in Stationery Collection Drive

Stationary drive has been approved by Guinness World Records as “the largest collection of School

Supplies for Charity in 24 hours”. 10975 kgs of stationary items including school bags were collected,

sorted, weighed and handed over to Emirates Red Crescent on 13 – 14 Oct at Al Diyafah High School

to help children in the refugee camps to pursue their education; the previous record was 4581kgs by

Saudi Arabia.

Illustration 8: Apparel Group participation in Stationery Collection Drive

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Universal Children’s Day Celebration with Differently Challenged Children

On the occasion of Universal Children’s Day, Apparel Group Kuwait organized creative activity for

Disabled Children of Khalifa School Salmiya on 23rd November 2016. As part of this activity 15

employees from various Brands of Apparel Kuwait and office staff visited the school to organize it.

As a part of this activity, the differently abled children were divided in various teams and were

assigned task. Four large banners with words HAPPY, CHILDRENS, DAY, APPAREL Group

were kept at 4 different tables and children were provided with magazines and newspapers for colorful

cuttings. Children were also given other things like flowers, numbers and stickers. The Children were

asked to paste these decorative items on the huge alphabets of 4 posters kept on different tables.

Teachers assisted the children in pasting the items on the posters. Once the task was completed

children, students and guests walked in a circle with loud music and dance. The pictures with children

and 4 banners in the background were taken. More than 220 children from the school and around 25

teachers participated in the activity.

The objective behind organizing this activity was to bring them all together, educate and engage them

and make them feel proud of their creation through their hard work.

All Children were given Tommy Hilfiger and Sketchers Bags by Mr Azim Mohammed, General

Manager Tommy Hilfiger and Mr. Hitesh - Country Manager Kuwait.

Illustration 9: Differently Challenged Children rejoicing after accomplishing the task

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UAE National Day celebrated to raise funds for education of Orphan Children

Not every person is able to adopt an orphaned or abandoned child, but everyone has the power to empower an orphan. This time on the occasion of UAE National Day, Tim Hortons and Cold Stone decided to make a difference in the lives of Orphan Children in UAE by donating part of their sale proceeds of Coffee and Ice Creams towards education of Orphan Children in association with UAE Red Crescent.

Illustration 10: Tim Hortons and Cold Stone Charity initiative in UAE National Day

Sports activities for disadvantaged children

There are many families in UAE who cannot afford to send their children to summer camps during

school summer holidays , nor do the these children go to their home country as both parents are

working. As a result of which, many children during school holidays get confined to their houses with

limited or no opportunity to play games, socialize with other children of their age, learn new things and

be active. On the contrary they have plenty of time which gets wasted and leads to boredom.

Apparel Group’s Brand New Balance in association with BOOST, a charity initiative facilitated sports

activities for disadvantaged children in Dubai. New Balance as a part of its CSR initiative provided

transport facility for these children to move out of their houses and learn and enjoy various sports

activities to keep themselves active and stimulated.

Feedback from families and summer camp providers of the 2016 Boost programme has highlighted

the significant impact that programme has had on the children. Children that attended the camps for 2

months have reported to have an increased level of confidence, overall happiness and positive

behavior and an increased level of English language.

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B. Educate and Engage to Beat Breast Cancer

Nine West Celebrated 1st anniversary of its Beat Breast Cancer Project

June 2016, Nine West has successfully completed one year of its long term project “Beat Breast

Cancer” to raise awareness and funds to fight against Breast Cancer.

The purpose of the campaign is to create more and more awareness about early screening, detection,

treatment and raising funds for the cause. Nine West has educated and engaged more than 10,000

customers in creating awareness and also in raising funds above AED 188,000.00 Nine West

customers have not only got involved in the project but have also appreciated the efforts of the Nine

West team in taking this cause ahead for women, being a women oriented brand. Many of the

customers were so touched by the project that they shared their stories if any with store staffs to

ventilate their feelings and make commitment to support it by all means.

Illustration 11: Glimpses of the various milestones of the project

Corporate Wellness Day

Promoting our Preamble Educate Engage Enable, nearly 75 women employees took part in

Educational session and were engaged in clinical examination on the occasion of Corporate Wellness

Day on 17th October 2016 in Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This was held in collaboration with

Pink Caravan, an exclusive initiative by Charitable Organization- Friends of Cancer Patients, the aim

was to educate women about breast cancer and the importance of regular screening for early

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detection, cure and survival. Nine West being an active supporter of the campaign, presented Gift

vouchers to encourage women who came forward for screening. They were also happy to avail Nail

Spa and Glimmer Body Art services in Pink to support the cause.

Illustration 12: Corporate wellness day for female employees

Free makeover to support Breast Cancer Awareness

As a part of breast cancer awareness month, Ingot also expressed its support towards the cause

through a week-long initiative, where employees were motivated to bring in their old makeup and trade

it in for 40% off voucher to be redeemed in stores. 10% of the profits from all sale proceeds were

donated to Pink Caravan initiative of Friends of Cancer Patients for breast cancer awareness and

treatment programmes. Inglot also organized free makeover for employees to create awareness and

encourage them to make donation as a token towards the cause.

Illustration 13: Free makeover to support Breast Cancer Awareness

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Support the cause -Breast Cancer Awareness

October being the Breast Cancer Awareness Month, La Vie en Rose actively started a storewide

campaign to support raise awareness and funds for the cause of Breast Cancer eradication. The

brand adopted a cause related marketing project and committed to donated 10AED to breast cancer

awareness and treatment through Pink Caravan and Red Crescent for every bra sold in stores across

the UAE from 1st October to 31st October, 2016. They engaged customers to support the cause by

getting involved in the fight against breast cancer.

Illustration 14: Support the cause campaign

Cancer awareness campaign on World Cancer Day

Tim Hortons joined hands with charity organization, Pure Heart 4 Cancer to raise awareness about

cancer survivors through awareness campaign on Friday February 5th 2016. The aim was to raise

awareness about the cause on World Cancer Day, to celebrate cancer survivors.

The campaign started with bikers riding to raise awareness on the cause followed by a festive day for

family, individuals and entities providing fun activities for kids, talent competition and

speech performed by cancer survivors and patients, raffle draws and much more. Tim Hortons

supported by setting up a booth to showcase its support and provide a platform to interact with the

survivors and patients on the day.

Illustration 15: Bike Ride and fun activities for cancer awareness

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Enabling Environment

A. Reduce and Recycle Paper, Cartons and Plastic

Reduce, Reuse and Recycle

Reducing the amount of waste you produce is the best way to help the environment. The 3R's are at

the heart of the ‘Go Green’ global movement. It is widely recognized that all of our activities today are

contributing to climate change especially how we choose to handle waste, affects our world's

environment and to safeguard it Distribution Center team has successfully recycled 320 tons of

cardboard.

Give as we grow

A. Product Donation

Staff Development programme with Dubai Autism Center

People work more effectively, creatively, and collaboratively when they are happy at work. With this

belief, Apparel Group started Staff Development Programme for Teachers teaching in Dubai Autism

Center. This programme focusses on engaging teachers to build satisfaction, create a sense of

enthusiasm and motivation in them for teaching children with Autism. Under this initiative we celebrate

Birthdays of all staff members and Cold Stone Creamery provides cake.

Illustration 16: DAC Teacher’s Birthday Celebration

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Sole Mates- Paying It forward

Shoe brand Aldo, in association with The Emirates Red Crescent, organized a charity campaign

called “Sole Mates- Paying It forward” in their store in Dubai Festival City Mall on Saturday, 3rd of

September. The same campaign was also organized in association with Dar Al Atta’a ( Oman) and

Rotary Club of Sulmaniya ( Bahrain ) on 3rd December 10th December respectively that encouraged

people to donate a pair of shoes to people in need. More than 2000 People participated in the charity

and donated around 5000 pair of shoes. Aldo not only invited people to be a part of this nobel cause

but also offered them a new one pair of shoes as its way of saying thank you to people for their kind

gesture. The representatives of the charities also paid a visit to the campaign and witnessed the

generosity of the people in all three countries. Above all, it was also a great employee’s engagement

initiative as the Aldo Team together worked quite aggressively towards making this programme a huge

success.

Illustration 17: Shoes donation by customers for people in need

and by Aldo for customers as token of thanks( UAE)

Illustration 18: Aldo Shoe Donation Drive in Oman and Bahrain

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Celebration to spread happiness among orphan children

On the first Friday of April, the Arab world celebrates Orphans Day, a day to remember orphans and

give them the attention of society. The idea behind this day is to remind people, officials and

organizations of a forgotten category in society. It is an attempt to highlight their situation and gather

what could be gained of attention, care and aid.

To celebrate Orphans day , three of the Apparel Group children’s brand , LC Waikiki, R&B and Baby

Center came together and supported Beit Al khair, charitable organization in giving gift to nearly 30

children from age of 5-15 years, both girls and boys, to get smile on their face. Besides this some fun

activities like face painting, clown, workshop, games..etc were also organized for children.

Illustration 19: Orphan children enjoying the gifts and fun activities

Skechers support for Terry Fox Run

Skechers participated in the 7th Annual RAK Terry Fox Run, organized under the patronage of H.H.

Sheikh Saud Bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, held on

26th February, 2016 at the Ras Al Khaimah Corniche. Skechers also gave sippers and caps as

giveaways to participants to encourage run. Approximately 4,000 people participated for raising

awareness about cancer and funds for cancer research showcasing their commitment to the

community.

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Books donation to promote reading and education

UAE’s National Reading Law came into place in May 2016, whereby, His Highness Sheikh

Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum announced that the UAE “will be a pioneer in our region in issuing

a law to promote and support reading". He also started The “Reading Nation” Campaign. The ‘Reading

Nation’ campaign aims to distribute 5 million books to children in refugee camps and schools around

the world were launched by His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President

and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai

To encourage reading for nurturing the mind and the soul, Apparel Group also donated 60620 books

worth AED 3,331,563.00 to Sharjah City for Humanitarian services for their annual book fair campaign

and to be a part of The ‘Reading Nation’ campaign.

Illustration 20: Books donated to Sharjah City for Humanitarian Service

Aldo shoes for war affected people

Aldo continued to respond to the Syrian refugee crisis that has forced millions of men, women, and

children to flee a bloody civil war in their homeland for safe refuge in neighboring countries throughout

the region. These struggling families who left almost everything behind lack basic necessities such as

quality shoes on their feet. Aldo and Call It Spring donated 19317 pair of shoes and other accessories

worth AED 1,574,448 for these people. For speed of delivery to the refugees, the shoes were

delivered to UAE Red Crescent to be shipped to Syrian refugee camps.

Illustration 21: Aldo donating shoes to UAE Red Crescent

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Bedo clothes for those in need

There are people who cannot even afford the basic requirements of living and do not have clothes to

wear. Bedo donated 1806 units of clothes to Beit Al Khair society to be distributed to people in need.

Illustration 22: Clothes donation to Beit Al Khair Society

Aeropostale for visually challenged in Bahrain

To support visually challenged people in Bahrain, the Aeropostale team donated t-shirts to Friendship

society for the Blind. Friendship Society for the Blind in providing decent work opportunities for people

with special needs, especially women, and encouraging them to contribute to the economic

development efforts.

Illustration 23: Contribution for Friendship Society for Blind

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Pink Ribbon to support Breast Cancer Awareness- Glimmer Body Art

To show its solidarity towards the cause of breast cancer awareness, Glimmer Body Art did pink

ribbon artwork on all the women participants for Corporate wellness day. The Brand not only

supported this in Apparel Group, but also in other companies like Nestle, Pepsico, Dewa.

Illustration 24: Pink Ribbon Artwork to support Breast Cancer Awareness

TOMS foot care for Syrian refugees

A small gesture of ours is a boon for poverty stricken, deprived people to stay happy during the cruel

winter, summer or rainy season. So TOMS as a part of its philosophy of donating one pair of shoes for

each pair sold, donated 10020 pairs to UAE Red Crescent for war affected children to showcase its

generosity, and help these children to walk proudly even in the adverse season.

Tim Hortons donating to promote education of Special Needs- SNF Fun Fair

To support fund raising efforts for the cause of special needs children , Tim Hortons participated by

donating Tim Bits as give away to all the attendants of the Annual Fun Fair organized by Special

Needs Future (SNF) Development Center, at Dubai International Marine Club on 18th November,

2016. Funds raised through the fun fair helps in fulfilling the educational needs of children with

disability. To encourage people’s participation and raise awareness among general public on the

cause, Tim Hortons extended its support for the fun fair.

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B. Fundraising

Nine West raising awareness and funds to beat Breast Cancer

Nine West as a part of its commitment to raise awareness and funds for prevention and treatment of

Breast Cancer has successfully raised AED 200,000 in one year till June 2015 - 2016 in partnership

with Pink Caravan, a pan-UAE breast cancer awareness initiative from Friends of Cancer Patients

(FoCP). Nine West employees through its storewide campaigns are the ambassadors of cause

making significant efforts to raise awareness and funds and reduce the stigma of breast cancer by

continuously educating and engaging its customers .They have also been selling UAE Map shaped

small magnet Pin to raise funds. 100% of the sale proceeds of the Pins go towards large-scale

prevention, treatment and care programs for patients. In the year 2016 they managed to reach out to

6899 Customers and raised AED 137980/- for treatment of breast cancer patients.

Illustration 25: Mr. Neeraj Tekchandani, Apparel Group CFO presenting cheque of AED 200,000. to Dr.

Sawsan Al Madhi, Director General of Friends of Cancer Patients and Head of the Medical and

Awareness Committee of Pink Caravan.

Illustration 26: customers buying Pink Caravan Pins to

raise awareness and funds to beat breast cancer

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Friends of Cancer Patients, new charity partner for raising funds

A donation box is a phenomenal way of raising funds and also one of the easiest and fastest methods

for a nonprofit organization. Our formal charity partner for fund raising through donation boxes in

Dubai is Dubai Autism Center and Big Heart Foundation as formal charity partner for our stores in

Sharjah and Ajman. We have now chosen Friends of Cancer Patients to be on board for raising funds

for Breast Cancer through donation boxes in Apparel Group stores throughout the Emirates of Abu

Dhabi, Al Ain, Fujiarah and Ras Al Khaimeh. FoCP will share the report of funds raised on quarterly

basis to know the impact of the initiative.

Friends of Cancer Patients charity is a non-profit organization registered at the UAE Ministry of Social

Affairs under the directives and royal patronage of Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al

Qasimi, Wife of the Ruler of Sharjah, His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qassimi.

FoCP is committed to help cancer patients and their families get through the long and arduous journey

of cancer treatment. Since its inception, FoCP has delivered moral and financial support to over 1,300

patients and their families, irrespective of their nationality, gender, age, religion or ethnicity.

Illustration 27: Charity box Friends of Cancer Patients

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Engagement with External Stakeholders

A. Representing our commitment in CSR Forums

TOMS CEO Mr. Jim Alling visited UAE Red Crescent to celebrate their partnership

TOMS has been donating shoes to Emirates Red Crescent for last one year and is proud to announce

its partnership with them to support their mission in the region. TOMS One for One model, where for

every pair you buy TOMS gives a new pair of shoes to a child in need, has partnered with the

Emirates Red Crescent as its local Charity partner for UAE and till date has donated more than

12,500 pairs of shoes to support their wonderful cause.

These shoes are being distributed both locally to orphans and in the Syrian refugee camps in Jordan.

A meeting was held on the 4th of April 2016 to celebrate this partnership which was attended by Head

of Emirates Red Crescent Mr. Mohammed Al Zarooni and Mr. Mohammed Kamal along with TOMS

CEO Mr. Jim Alling, TOMS EMEA General Manager Ms. Helen Thompson, TOMS EMEA Head of

Marketing Ms. Allie Tsvadaries, Apparel Group TOMS General Manager Mr. Siddharth Dixit and

TOMS Operations Manager Ms. Martina Ocampo.

Illustration 28: TOMS CEO Mr. Jim Alling with Head of Emirates Red Crescent Mr. Mohammed Al Zarooni

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Tim Hortons invited by Dubai Chamber to share best practices for Social Inclusion and

Employment for People with Disabilities.

People with disability face widespread barriers to accessing employment and services, many of these

barriers are avoidable and the disadvantage associated with disability can be overcome. Being

employed is critical for the wellbeing of people with disabilities these employment opportunities

represent much more than simply jobs – they also provide a source of self-esteem, income, social

networks and dignity. Dubai Chamber organized a panel session on Social Inclusion and Employment

for PWD’s’. Tim Hortons was invited to share their story of successfully employing differently

challenged people at workplace and overcoming all the challenges and barriers attached to it.

Tim Hortons shared on the importance of social inclusion and diversity in the workplace for Apparel

Group specifically with relation to PWD’s, how different stakeholders worked towards this, challenges,

different initiatives, successes etc. It was highly appreciated by other member companies who

attended as it encouraged everyone to improve education environment and skills training to ensure

PWD get jobs and get integrated into society.

Illustration 29: Debasis Das presenting on Tim Horton’s integrating

Differently challenged people at Cake and Bake shop

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Dubai Dialogue- Sustainability matters

The Dubai Chamber Centre for Responsible Business (CRB) organized Ninth Dubai Dialogue:

‘Realigning Business Models & Strategies to achieve Sustainable Development’ on 22 November

2016 in Dubai-UAE. The conference brought together business, government, community partners and

other stakeholders to discuss the operationalizing and achieving sustainable development goals for

UAE. The conference looked at mobilizing sustainable businesses and stakeholders towards playing a

pivotal role in improving for driving sustainable change through innovations, partnerships and

realignment of existing business models through interactive discussions and best practice sharing.

Apparel Group was invited to speak at the conference as part of the panel session:

Social Inclusion and Employment for PWD’s’. This session focused on the importance of social

inclusion and diversity in the workplace specifically with relation to PWD’s, how Apparel Group working

towards this, challenges, different initiatives, successes etc.

Illustration 30: Dr.Sangeeta Sharma, Apparel Group in Panel discussion

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Supporting the Global Gift Gala

The Global Gift Gala is a unique international fundraising gala initiative. This platform brings together

the worlds of Business, Celebrity and Philanthropy to raise funds and awareness. Global Gift Gala is a

truly inspirational platform that has helped to better the lives of thousands of women, children and

families around the world.

Apparel Group was the proud donor for the Global Gift Gala, held in Dubai on 12th December 2016 to

support the cause of the Global Gift Gala in its endeavors in reaching out to people in need.

Illustration 31: Eva Longoria Baston, Honorary Chair at

The Global Gift Gala, addressing the audience

Apparel Group CSR Annual Report 2016

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Participated in ‘Mobilizing Collective Efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development

Goals’ and was a speaker for Round table discussion on zero waste to landfill,

organized by Dubai Chamber and Unilever.

The UAE reiterated its commitment to the 17 SDGs as a way to reinforce and pave its pursuit for its

sustainable development. However, achieving the ambitions set for access to clean energy, quality

education and health care systems, sustainable economic growth, increased resource efficiencies

requires a multi-sectoral approach.

This event aimed to bring together different stakeholders who are key to the achievement/success of

UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) including, the public and private sector, NGOs,

Academia and Sustainability experts, to explore collaboration opportunities.

The Round Table Discussion on ‘Zero Waste to Landfill’ with focus on non-hazardous waste brought

together leaders from the government, waste management sector, and business sector to discuss key

local trends and challenges, key initiatives and strategies being undertaken in managing non-

hazardous waste.

Illustration 32: The Round Table Discussion on ‘Zero Waste to Landfill’ at Dubai Chamber

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United Nations Global Compact – Communication on Progress training

Apparel Group being one of the first few companies to sign United Nations Global Compact , attended

first training programme on Communication - On – Progress (COP) organized by the local UNGC

Network on 17th January. The workshop discussed the essentials of reporting and imparted training

to draft a Communication- On- Progress that effectively communicates company's stakeholders and

comply with the UNGC's reporting requirements.

Reporting the progress made on 10 principles of UNGC

Apparel Group reaffirms its support of the Ten Principles of the United Nations Global Compact in the

areas of Human Rights, Labour, Environment and Anti-Corruption and reported the progress made on

these fronts after successful completion of first year of signing the commitment to adherence to UNGC

principles.

In this annual Communication on Progress, we describe our actions to continually improve the

integration of the Global Compact and its principles into our business strategy, culture and daily

operations.

Apparel Group has been selected as lead company by Dubai Chamber for waste

management and resource efficiency task group.

For waste management and resource efficiency task group, Dubai Chamber has selected Apparel

Group to take the lead and drive the objectives of the sustainability network task group. The task fo the

lead is to get members engage with various stakeholders such as Dubai Municipality, waste

management companies and other organizations to discuss and consider potential strategies for

waste management in the UAE. Share best practices in waste management with the wider business

community.

Attended Panel Discussion on Sustainable Consumption and Production organized by

Emirates Environmental Group.

Attended Press Conference Clean UP UAE Campaign 2016 organized by Emirates

Environmental Group.

Panel discussion series titled “Responsible Consumption and Production – Water”

organized by Emirates Environmental Group.

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B. Media Coverage

https://www.zawya.com/story/Dubai_Chamber_presents_CSR_Label_to_21_companies_for_their

_sustainability_efforts-ZAWYA20161026095942/

http://www.mediaoffice.ae/en/media-center/news/26/10/2016/dubai-chamber.aspx

http://www.khaleejtimes.com/business/local/toms-launches-vibrant-springsummer-2016-

collection-in-uae

https://www.facebook.com/ThePinkCaravan?fref=nf- June 7, 11:35 am

http://www.tipsfromlips.com/?p=497

http://www.imagesretailme.com/Images-RetailME-Articles.aspx?ArticleId=1976

https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=780044712096441&id=283396228427961

http://www.godubai.com/citylife/press_release_page.asp?pr=108306

http://sport360.com/article/health-and-fitness/182285/big-turnout-expected-at-dubais-

international-day-of-yoga/

http://www.dubaiprnetwork.com/Company-PR.asp?pr=111039&TAID=12&Referer=Apparel-

Group&PRName=Apparel%20Group

http://www.iyd.ae/home/News

http://www.emaratalyoum.com/life/society/2016-04-04-1.885228

http://alldubai.ae/dubai/athletes-co-in-dubai-mall/

http://www.khaleejtimes.com/nation/help-kids-in-refugee-camps-learn-donate-stationery-items

http://www.ahlanlive.com/give-away-your-shoes-today-for-a-good-cause-604260.html

http://gulfnews.com/news/uae/society/charity-shoe-giveaway-draws-huge-crowd-to-mall-1.1890251

http://www.godubai.com/citylife/press_release_page.asp?pr=112960

http://www.gehnaadvani.com/blog/aldo-gives-your-worn-shoes-a-new-purpose

https://www.instagram.com/gehnaadvani/

https://www.facebook.com/FridayMagazine/

https://instagram.com/p/BJ3Igi6AkGQ/

https://instagram.com/p/BJ0BTKbjzZF/

https://www.instagram.com/p/BJ51S-3hbH0/?taken-by=stylemejournal

http://www.khaleejtimes.com/nation/general/aldo-initiative-wants-dubai-residents-to-gives-shoes-to-needy

http://www.dubaiprnetwork.com/pr.asp?pr=112960

Tabloid 1 September, 2016

Gulf News Newspaper 4 September, 2016

40 press and social media posts on Nine West support towards Pink Caravan in raising

AED 200,000

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Bloggers Posts

Ninewest

We gained an engagement and reach of 28,700+ people on Facebook and Instagram through our

bloggers activation on Pink October. Below is a screenshot of the cover pic on our FB page for the

month.

Illustration 33: Screenshot of the Ninewest Arabia Facebook Page

Tied up with Dubai based influencers: Trisha Vaz (34.4K followers), Leyla Brunton (36.7K followers),

Alyssa Nicole (22. K followers), and Soraya Hennessy (11.2k followers) to promote the cause.

Illustration 34: Post from Blogger highlighting Nine West supporting Pink Caravan

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Illustration 35: Post from Blogger highlighting Nine West supporting Pink Caravan

Bloggers wearing the Pink Caravan Pin

Illustration 36: Blog Post from Blogger highlighting Nine West supporting Pink Caravan

Apparel Group CSR Annual Report 2016

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Awards and Accolades

A. World COB CSR Certification

The WORLDCOB-CSR is a set of Corporate Social Responsibility standards, created by WORLDCOB,

and reviewed by The British Standards Institution (BSI), a founding member of ISO, to certify those

organizations who choose to carry out their activities based on a Corporate Social Responsibility

Policy, and who contribute their community in general. Through these standards, WORLDCOB audited

Apparel Group and recognized us as a company which voluntarily pledges its commitment to

systematically include benefits to society and the environment to the growth of their commercial

operations.

Illustration 37: World COB CSR Certificate

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B. CSR Label

Apparel Group was honored by the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry for its exemplary

contribution in CSR and Sustainability.

Apparel Group Chairman, Mr. Nilesh Ved, received the prestigious CSR Label 2016 award for the

fourth consecutive year from H.E. Majid Saif Al Ghurair, Chairman, Dubai Chamber of Commerce and

Industry during appreciation and awards ceremony held on 26th October, 2016 at Dubai Chamber.

This award not only provides us recognition for the effectiveness of our CSR and sustainability

initiatives, it further reinforces Apparel Group’s commitment to act responsibly and demonstrate that

the activities we initiate make a significant impact on our society, community and the environment at

large.

Illustration 38: Apparel Group Chairman, Mr. Nilesh Ved, receiving CSR Label 2016 award

from H.E. Majid Saif Al Ghurair, Chairman, Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry

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C. The Global Gift Philanthropreneur Award

Mrs. Sima Ved, Vice Chairperson, Apparel Group was conferred with prestigious The Global Gift

Philanthropreneur Award for her exemplary contributions in the field of Corporate Social Responsibility

by Eva Longoria Baston at The Global Gift Gala.

Illustration 39: Mrs. Sima Ved, Vice Chairperson of The Apparel Group, receiving the Global Gift

Philanthropreneur Award from Eva Longoria Baston at The Global Gift Gala.

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D. Appreciation Certificate from RAK Terry Fox Foundation

Apparel Group was presented certification of appreciation for generous support and contributions for

the 7th annual RAK Terry Fox Run held on Friday February 26th, 2016, under the patronage and

participation of HH Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, UAE Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras

Al Khaimah. All funds raised were given to the UAE University in Al Ain where a number of ongoing

and impressive cancer research projects are being conducted.

Terry Fox Run of 3km/5km is a non-competitive charity event held annually in numerous regions

around the world in memory of Terry Fox, a young Canadian amputee who attempted to run across

Canada in 1980 to raise awareness for money and a greater effort to be given to cancer research.

Illustration 40: Certificate of Appreciation from RAK Terry Fox Foundation

E. Reward from Friends of Cancer Patients

Nine West team have dedicated themselves to the fight against breast cancer by raising awareness

and funds for the cause. Some of the team members have gathered support and successfully

engaged as many as 350 customers individually. To celebrate their success and to appreciate the top

10 store managers, Friends of Cancer Patients rewarded them with Rotana gift vouchers.

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Tangible Achievements

CSR Annual Report 2016

Activities Unit of

measurement

Since Inception

2014

Q1 (Jan-

March)

Q2 ( April - June)

Q3 ( July -Sept)

Q4 ( Oct-Dec)

Total till 2016

A Internal and

external Communication

1 Creating

Companies Brand in CSR Initiatives

No. of events attended/organized

for Apparel group representation

67 3 3 6 1 80

2 Media Coverage

on CSR No. of news

coverage 58 1 10 54 3 126

B Employee’s engagement

1 Activities

conducted No. of activities 115 16 8 9 16 164

2 Employees engaged

No. of employees 6444 101 643 274 190 7652

3 Manhours

contributed No. of Manhours 23704 6631 5434 7818 4775 48362

C Brands Specific

CSR

1 Brands involved in

CSR No. of brands 42 11 10 7 10 50

2 Product

donation/GV No. of units 89220 17243 61956 5463 10401 184283

3 Retail value of

products donated AED 6391878 888515 3442370 457776 520350 11243113

4 Funds donated AED 12792816 22500 0 35,000 569,000 13396816

D Customer’s

engagement

1 Funds donated /

raised AED 492589 39060 79820 27540 33900 672909

2 Customers Engaged

No. 7320 1953 3454 2077 3195 17999

E Suppliers and

vendors engagement

1 Staff Engaged No. of staff 84 0 10 11 0 105

F Environment

1 Plastic Bales

recycled Tons 13.09 0 0 0 0 13.09

2 Carton Bales

Recycled Tons 518.1 84.6 121.3 57.34 57 838.34

G Community

1 Beneficiaries No. of people 21928 17453 17721 9625 9725 76452