Supplier & Independent Assurance Statement

Purpose

This statement sets out WBP Equip's approach to supplier engagement and the use of independent assurance and advisory support.

Supplier Engagement Principles

We engage suppliers on a proportionate basis, consistent with our governance framework and business needs. Supplier relationships are managed with attention to legal, ethical, security, and data protection considerations.

Use of Independent Expertise

Where appropriate, we engage independent, third-party expertise to support specific areas of our operations. This may include:

• technical validation and review;
• specialist advice in areas such as data protection, AI governance, or security;
• peer review or challenge of methodologies and outputs; and
• assurance support for governance and compliance activities.

Accountability and Control

The use of suppliers and independent advisers does not transfer responsibility from WBP Equip. We retain accountability for decisions, outputs, and the governance of activities carried out on our behalf.

Risk Awareness and Proportional Oversight

We apply proportionate oversight to supplier and advisory relationships, taking into account factors such as the nature of the engagement, the data or systems involved, and the level of risk. Key areas of focus include:

• supplier capability and standing;
• contractual safeguards aligned to the nature of the engagement; and
• ongoing review where relationships are sustained.

Information Security and Data Considerations

Where suppliers or advisers have access to company data, systems, or intellectual property, appropriate safeguards are applied to protect confidentiality, integrity, and availability of information.