Costco announces conditional acceptance of SEDEX factory audit reports

Following Walmart’s announcement of a change in its social responsibility audit policy, Costco announced that it would accept Sedex factory audit reports. Like Walmart, it selected an APSCA member audit agency, and the auditors must be APSCA registered to perform the audit! In addition, Costco has its own special requirements, and the audit requires a 2-week half-notice period.

Therefore, audited companies should pay special attention when applying for SEDEX audits for Costco customers:

When applying, you must choose the right agency and tell the agency that the report is for Costco customers. You must arrange for an auditor who meets the requirements to perform the audit; a semi-notified audit needs to be arranged.

Both points are indispensable, otherwise even if the report is issued, Costco customers will still not accept the Sedex factory inspection report.