Softcat, a UK-based VAR, has mandated that 80% of its suppliers by spend obtain an EcoVadis rating and set a net zero target. The company achieved a 97th percentile ranking in EcoVadis, scoring 100/100 in environmental impact and improving its ethics score by 29 points. The initiative, part of the '3S' framework, applies to vendors, partners, and distributors. Softcat's operations director Anna Pulisciano stated that customer demand for responsible supply chains is accelerating ESG adoption. The company emphasizes real action over discussion, urging suppliers to demonstrate sustainability maturity. The move reflects growing pressure across the IT and supply chain sectors to address Scope 3 emissions and meet global sustainability standards.
Softcat Achieves Top 3% Global ESG Ranking
Softcat has moved from the 91st to the 97th percentile in the EcoVadis sustainability assessment, according to the source. The company scored 100 out of 100 in the environmental theme and improved its ethics score by 29 points. These results place Softcat in the top 3% of companies ranked by EcoVadis globally.
“Being awarded Gold is really, really important, but what we are doing now is really embedding EcoVadis into our supply frameworks.” — Anna Pulisciano, Operations Director, Softcat
3S Framework Mandates Supplier Accountability
Softcat launched its ‘3S’ framework—standing for ‘Softcat, Supply Chain, and Solutions’—to align its partners with its net zero goals. The framework requires suppliers to meet two criteria: obtain an EcoVadis rating and commit to a net zero target. This directive applies to the top 80% of suppliers by spend, as stated in the report.
- 80% of suppliers by spend must comply
- Suppliers must achieve an EcoVadis rating
- Suppliers must set a net zero target
- Framework applies across vendors, partners, and distribution channels
- Softcat’s leadership team fully supports the initiative
Customer Demand Driving ESG Adoption
Anna Pulisciano acknowledged that not all suppliers will comply immediately. However, she emphasized that customer pressure is a key driver. Increasingly, customers expect vendors to work with responsible supply chains, making ESG compliance a market necessity rather than a voluntary effort.
Softcat aims to help suppliers prepare for future customer requirements, whether based on EcoVadis or emerging standards. The company stresses that suppliers must demonstrate maturity in their sustainability progression to remain competitive.
Industry Collaboration Falls Short on Action
According to Pulisciano, the industry often talks about sustainability collaboration but lacks tangible outcomes. She noted that many sustainability professionals lack the authority to implement change. Softcat is positioning itself as a leader by using its procurement power to influence suppliers to act responsibly.
“We want to be leaders in terms of saying you don’t have to accept things the way they are, you can use your leverage and encourage people to do the right thing,” she said.
Source: www.channelweb.co.uk
Compiled from international media by the SCI.AI editorial team.
