DeLaval for suppliers
We work closely with our suppliers to ensure consistent quality, competitive costs, and reliable delivery across our supply chain. Through clear expectations and ongoing collaboration, we aim to drive efficiency, improve performance, and respond effectively to changing market demands.
Open communication and transparency are central to how we operate. By working as partners, we can identify opportunities, solve challenges quickly, and support continuous improvement on both sides.
At the same time, we expect our suppliers to operate responsibly and in line with applicable standards. This includes adherence to ethical business practices, as well as attention to environmental and safety considerations within their operations and value chain.
Purchase orders
A purchase order (PO) is a formal request from DeLaval to a supplier to deliver materials or services in a specified quantity, at an agreed date, and under defined terms and conditions. A PO is a legal document.
A supplier should always require a formal (written) PO from DeLaval, including the PO number, delivery instructions, and invoice address.
A formal PO forms the basis for issuing an invoice and processing payment
Supplier collaboration
Collaboration with DeLaval suppliers is governed by structured processes designed to ensure efficiency, compliance, and operational excellence. These processes cover all stages of the supplier relationship, including qualification, sourcing activities, contracting, ordering, and performance management.
Responsible sourcing
At DeLaval, responsible sourcing is an integral part of how we do business. It reflects our commitment to conduct procurement in a way that respects animals, the planet, people, and food, while delivering long‑term value to our customers and stakeholders.
By working together with our suppliers, we aim to build a resilient, transparent, and responsible value chain that meets high standards of ethics, sustainability, and performance.
Our expectations are set out in the DeLaval Ethics & Sustainability Principles (http://www.delaval.com/legal). The principles are structured around animals, the planet, human and labour rights, and ethical business practices. Acceptance of these principles is a mandatory part of our agreements, and suppliers must formally accept and maintain compliance with them throughout their relationship with DeLaval. Read more about the DeLaval Ethics & Sustainability Principles.
Quality
Quality is one of the highest priorities for DeLaval. We expect our suppliers to deliver products and services in line with agreed standards. In the event of any non‑conformity, suppliers are expected to apply a structured problem‑solving approach using the 8D (Eight Disciplines) methodology.