# Localized Enterprise Programs Unilever Introduced a Suppliers’ Recruitment Drive in Thailand By Debra John | Published 2024-09-25 | Social Good Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/suppliers-recruitment-drive References: [unilever](https://www.unilever.com/sustainability/equity-diversity-and-inclusion/promoting-diverse-suppliers/) & [weareaptn.org](https://www.weareaptn.org/2021/08/17/ossmep-x-unilever-suppliers-diversity-inclusion-project/)  [Unilever](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/unilever-and-be-my-eyes) has partnered with the Thailand Office of SME Promotion Board (OSMEP) to launch "the country's first diverse suppliers’ recruitment drive; this initiative represents a nationwide effort to identify and engage local and diverse small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to participate in Unilever’s supplier development program." Originally initiated in 2021, this program continues to operate with defined business-to-consumer (B2C) goals set for 2025. In particular, its primary objectives include promoting gender equality and social inclusivity within the supply chain, thereby fostering a more diverse and equitable business environment in Thailand. Moreover, the positive implications of this program extend beyond Unilever’s operations; it not only enhances supply chain resilience but also "contributes to the [economic empowerment of diverse SMEs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mastercard-x-pier-five-small-business-fund), supporting broader socio-economic growth in the region." Image Credit: Shutterstock ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 3.9/10 - Popularity: 37% | Activity: 53% | Freshness: 28% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: Asia ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Social Good](https://www.trendhunter.com/socialgood) > [Social Business](https://www.trendhunter.com/socialbusiness) ## Key Themes ### Key Themes Behind This Trend - **Gender-inclusive Supply Chains:** Gender-inclusive supply chains are emerging as a pivotal strategy to foster diversity and equity within business operations, enhancing overall corporate social responsibility. - **SME Empowerment Programs:** SME empowerment programs are becoming crucial in driving regional economic growth and resilience through the active involvement of local small and medium-sized enterprises. - **Localized Supplier Development:** Localized supplier development initiatives are being increasingly adopted to tailor support and resources to specific regional needs, thereby bolstering local economies. ### Where This Applies - **Consumer Goods:** The consumer goods industry can benefit from integrating diverse local suppliers to enhance supply chain robustness and drive socioeconomic improvement. - **SME Support Services:** SME support services are seeing a growing demand as large corporations and governments seek to empower small businesses for broader economic impact. - **Diversity Consulting:** Diversity consulting is increasingly vital as companies aim to embed inclusive practices within their supply chains to meet evolving societal expectations. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Retailer Supplier Development](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/Retailer-supplier-development.md) - [Supplier Diversity Initiatives](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/supplier-diversity-1.md) - [Connective Supplier Initiatives](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/hilton-supply-management.md) - [Expansive Inclusivity Initiatives](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/boathouse-group.md) - [Supplier Diversity Pilot Programs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/diversity-pilot-program.md) - [Supply Chain Inclusivity Campaigns](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/she-is-pepsico.md) - [Diversifying University Supplier Initiatives](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/supplier-diversity-fair.md) - [Enlightening Supplier-Based Events](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/hong-kong-disneyland-resort.md) - [CSR Baking Initiatives](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/baking-a-better-tomorrow.md)