Code of Ethics

The Group’s Code of Ethics (the ‘Code’) sets out a number of fundamental principles which all Group companies and employees are required to follow. The Code covers many areas including fair competition, compliance with laws, including anti-trust laws, and maintenance of the Group’s reputation for integrity, including a prohibition on bribery and general principles for dealing with suppliers and authorities. The Code can be viewed in the 'Investor Centre' section or a printed copy is available from the Company Secretary.

In keeping with our decentralised approach, businesses are required to adopt their own codes which respect local cultures and businesses but which also set clear standards which are no less exacting than those detailed in the Code. These individual codes are appropriate to the scope of the local operation and endorse existing practices. All new companies joining the Group are required to adopt codes of ethics on the same basis as existing businesses.

Achievements during the year

PBM was the first trading company in France to be awarded a ‘Two Leaf’ rating from Le Commerce du Bois.
Wolseley UK was awarded a ‘Best in Class’ in the 2006 CiB National Communications Excellence Strategy Awards.
Stock Building Supply was presented with Liberty Mutual’s Gold Fleet Safety Award.
Wolseley UK was awarded the Royal Society of the Prevention of Accidents Gold Award for Occupational Health & Safety.
Wolseley Canada was awarded ‘Work Safe Alberta Best Safety Performer Award’.