Chapter 4: Our business integrity
We protect confidential information
The Nestlé way
From developing new formats and flavors to improving sustainability and nutritional benefits, we push the boundaries of what it means for Nestlé to be the Good food, Good life company. This also requires careful management of confidential and other non-public information to safeguard Nestlé’s competitive advantage.
Sharing confidential information without authorization is a breach of company policy and could lead to legal consequences. Nestlé will never seek to obtain or use proprietary or confidential information from employees which they may have obtained in the course of prior employment.
How we live it, every day
- Understand the types of information you manage and the rules that apply. Seek guidance if you are unsure.
- Only share confidential information if you are authorized to do so. This includes on social media and to your friends and family and extends beyond your time of employment at Nestlé. Also be mindful when sharing information internally.
- Demonstrate the same care and respect for the proprietary and confidential information of our business partners, suppliers and customers.
- Use only software, technology and information systems approved by Nestlé on company devices and when handling company data. Follow good data security practices and protect all electronic devices.
- Avoid discussing confidential information in public places where you may be overheard.
Putting our Code to the test
Q. We are about to launch a new product that I’ve been working on for several months. Over drinks with former colleagues, the topic of the product comes up as it is finally coming to fruition. Can I talk about it?
A. If you are talking to people outside the company or in a public place, including former colleagues, be very careful not to discuss any confidential information including information about product development and new product launches. As a rule, avoid revealing any information that has not been made public by Nestlé.
There are many examples of confidential information. Here are some of them:
- Trade secrets
- Know-how
- Business plans
- R&D developments
- Marketing and pricing strategies
- Consumer insights
- Engineering and manufacturing ideas
- Product recipes
- Trademarks and designs
- Salary information
- Non-published financial data
