How Manufacturera Soma consolidated its International Growth through Responsible Sourcing
Manufacturera Soma, a manufacturer of products linked to sport, entertainment and leisure, transformed its operational risk management by using the Sedex platform to integrate ethical due diligence across its entire supply chain.
Through self-assessment questionnaires, audits and a strong continuous improvement strategy, the company structured its processes, met international standards and successfully entered new global markets.
The challenge
During a key expansion phase, Manufacturera Soma faced the challenge of implementing human rights due diligence and responsible sourcing practices. As the company grew, informal processes were no longer sufficient to sustain its development.
The organisation encountered the following barriers:
- Customer requirements: Compliance with the ETI Base Code became an essential requirement to maintain and expand relationships with international clients.
- Lack of formal structure: The company needed to transition from an experience-based approach to formalised, scalable policies and procedures.
Commercial risk: Without a clear and consistent way to demonstrate responsible practices, Manufacturera Soma risked limiting its growth and losing opportunities in key markets.
The solution
Manufacturera Soma selected the Sedex platform to implement a comprehensive framework for risk management and internal structuring. The decision was based on Sedex’s ability to provide clear organisation and practical guidance on the key steps to follow.
The company’s approach included:
Assessment and mitigation strategy
They began the process in 2017 following an initial audit that identified 37 non-compliances. Since then, they have systematically addressed each area for improvement.
They used Sedex SAQ and ESAQ questionnaires as key tools to structure their internal policies.
Investment in safety infrastructure
They implemented advanced solutions, such as installing a fixed waterless fire suppression system, ensuring safety without putting raw materials, finished goods or machinery at risk.
Training and cross-functional integration
They leveraged Sedex’s ongoing training sessions and online courses to upskill employees.
They involved all key departments (Sales, Human Resources, Quality Control, Production, Maintenance and Warehouse) to align responsibilities, gather evidence and ensure consistent implementation across operations.
Result
By implementing Sedex’s management approach, Manufacturera Soma achieved a significant transformation in regulatory compliance and operational visibility.
Commercial impact and expansion
- Entered the retail sector and established a presence in eight countries through process standardisation.
- In January 2025, after successfully closing findings from a Responsible Sourcing Audit, they gained access to the North American market.
- They now pass audits with positive results and no critical non-compliances.
Operational efficiency and human resources
- 23% reduction in employee turnover.
- 97% on-time delivery rate.
- Workplace incidents reduced to an average of just one accident per year.
Environmental sustainability
- Achieved 95% recycling of industrial waste.
- Reduced production costs through the installation of solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems.
What Enabled This Success?
Manufacturera Soma strategically leveraged the Sedex ecosystem and methodology to accelerate its internal structuring. Rather than building a compliance framework from scratch, they used existing tools to receive step-by-step guidance.
The impact was truly cross-functional. By treating responsible sourcing as a core business priority, they fostered a strong working environment based on integration, safety and professional development, strengthening their position as a reliable partner for long-term business relationships.
Looking ahead
With compliance foundations in place, Manufacturera Soma is now focused on fully aligning buyers and suppliers to consolidate its responsible business model. They believe efforts must be mutual across the entire value chain to achieve sustainable ethical and commercial impact.
What Advice Does Manufacturera Soma Offer to Other Companies?
- Be guided by established platforms: Use available tools, attend training sessions and maintain ongoing contact with support teams to address identified non-compliances.
- Assign clear responsibility: Appoint a person responsible for ethical compliance who can engage different departments and document all actions.
- Communicate the purpose: Explain the importance of these improvements to all employees to ensure sustained progress.
Conclusion
The case of Manufacturera Soma demonstrates that ethical compliance is not at odds with companies in the early stages of growth. Structuring formal processes and focusing on responsible sourcing directly translate into international expansion, customer trust and operational efficiency.
Do you want to structure your company to grow responsibly and meet international requirements?
Contact Sedex to find out how our solution can accelerate your compliance programme while helping you build long-term strategic partnerships.
