Workplace service provider Sodexo Ireland said it has given its suppliers a net zero progress deadline and added that it will stop working with those who do not meet it.

Announcing its net zero supply chain engagement strategy, the company said that from January 2030 it will only work with suppliers demonstrating tangible progress through published reporting.

The food and facilities management business works with 400 supply partners in Ireland, spending €70m a year with them.

Across Ireland and the UK, it currently works with more than 4,000 supply partners, spending over €900m every year.

Sodexo said that supply partners representing 75% of its supply chain emissions in Ireland and the UK have already received a roadmap detailing the company's requirements of its supply chain, including the 2030 deadline.

Through an impact lens, it said it is most focused on the 500 organisations in Ireland and the UK who collectively represent 90% of its supply chain emissions.

Sodexo said it will provide its supply partners with mentoring and support to help them meet the net zero milestones.

It said that about 70% of its supply chain in Ireland and the UK is made up of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprises (VCSEs), most of which cannot be expected to have teams dedicated to sustainability or afford consultancy support.

"While Sodexo is being very clear with its supply partners about expectations, the business is also offering considerable support where these organisations are experiencing challenges, to help them complete the work needed to hit the milestones," it stated.

Aoife Wycherley, Head of Supply Chain, Sodexo UK & Ireland, said that when the company made its commitment to net zero by 2040, it committed to delivering on something that is "truly meaningful and would have real impact".

"We have always known that this is not going to be easy, it will be hugely complex and will require an enormous collective effort throughout our entire value chain. We are so proud of the extensive and diverse supply chain we have built - we genuinely work with some incredible businesses, big and small," she said.

"Their response to this challenge and to our offer of mentoring and other support has been positive and we feel confident that this roadmap will deliver ever more impactful reductions in emissions," she added.