1. Purpose

This policy outlines Sheard Packaging’s stance on lobbying activities in line with our ethical standards and commitment to transparency, accountability, and purpose-driven business. As a Certified B Corporation, we are committed to upholding the highest standards of social and environmental performance.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all employees, directors, contractors, consultants, and representatives of Sheard Packaging, including subsidiaries and associated entities.

3. Policy Statement

Sheard Packaging will lobby only to contribute to a positive impact on society or the environment.

Using an evidence-based approach e.g. Our lobbying is founded on:

Reliable data — objective, replicable evidence drawn from reputable, independent market research.

Scientific data — insights grounded in peer-reviewed, published academic or scientific research.

This approach aligns with the values of the B Corp community, which promotes a more inclusive, equitable, and regenerative economic system.

4. Compliance with UK Law

We are committed to complying with UK legislation, including the Transparency of Lobbying, Non-Party Campaigning and Trade Union Administration Act 2014. Sheard Packaging is not registered under the Register of Consultant Lobbyists, as we do not meet the criteria for registration under current law.

 5. Political Contributions and Employee Activity

The company does not make donations to political parties, candidates, or political action groups. Employees are free to engage in political activity in a personal capacity, outside of work, and without using company resources or representing the company in such activities.

All must comply with the company’s Anti-Bribery and Corruption Policy, which strictly prohibits any form of improper influence, facilitation payments, or the offering or acceptance of bribes in connection with political or governmental interactions.

6. Trade Associations and Industry Memberships

We may be members of trade or industry bodies for the purpose of collaboration, education, and best practices. We monitor these affiliations to ensure our contributions are not used for lobbying. Where lobbying activity is identified, we will review their position with our values and against the third-party impact frameworks we have aligned with (including the UN SDGs and B Corp). If misalignment exists in cases, we will publicly disclose the divergence between our position and theirs and what we have done to positively influence the trade association. We are part of mailing lists to get information on current lobbying activity and will reach out for more information if unsure on expected outcomes. Any lobbying through the trade association that will have a detrimental effect on any of our people or goes against our existing policies will prompt us to end the engagement should it be continued.

7. Ethical Engagement and Transparency

We support open dialogue with stakeholders, including regulators and policymakers, on issues related to packaging sustainability and innovation. However, any such engagement is non-political and strictly informational, consistent with our B Corp values of transparency and integrity.

8. Monitoring and Reporting

The company regularly reviews its own procedures, and the policy of associated trade bodies and encourages employees, or members of the public, who become aware of activities that may contravene this policy, must report them to Senior Leadership Team or via our grievance procedure. This policy and the control framework are implemented by the Finance Department of Sheard with ultimate oversight and responsibility for enforcement sitting with the Finance Director. This policy will be reviewed annually, and updated in line with changes to the law, B Corp standards, or company practice.

Lee Shackleton

Managing Director