Turning audits from a burden to a benefit: The value of certification

Photo courtesy of GlobalG.A.P.

How can audits for certification be used as a tool for business improvement?

Certification audits are often seen as an obligation to meet market requirements. However, when approached strategically, they can become valuable management tools. The audit process identifies gaps in environmental management and workers’ health, safety and welfare practices, helping growers to strengthen their operations. Not just a one-time compliance check, annual audits offer a structured way to continuously improve, implement optimizations and mitigate long-term risk.

What are the real business benefits of certification beyond market access?

While certification opens doors to new markets and buyers, its value can go far beyond that. Certified growers often see reduced product rejections, improved worker retention and streamlined operations. Many buyers now prioritize suppliers with third-party certifications, giving certified growers a competitive edge in the market. Certification demonstrates a commitment to transparency and best practices, strengthening relationships with both customers and consumers.

How does certification help mitigate risks related to environmental impact and workers’ health, safety and welfare?

Some certification frameworks, such as GLOBALG.A.P., are built on risk-based approaches that help growers proactively identify and address potential issues that are specific to their operations. Whether it’s managing environmental impact or workers’ welfare, certification supports structured policies and procedures that safeguard the business.

How can certification help me stay ahead of evolving regulations and market demands?

Private certification programs such as GLOBALG.A.P. are designed to align with both market and regulatory requirements. This is reinforced by achieving recognition from international benchmarking organizations and regulatory bodies. Additionally, they may engage major market players in the development process of the standards. For example, GLOBALG.A.P. farm assurance solutions are developed through an extensive public engagement process with growers, retailers and other supply chain stakeholders from across the agricultural industry and across the globe. GLOBALG.A.P.’s flagship standard, Integrated Farm Assurance (IFA), is recognized by the Floriculture Sustainability Initiative and requested by many major U.S. retailers in meeting their pollinator health policies, including Walmart, Giant Eagle and Southeastern Grocers.

What resources and support are available to help growers navigate the certification process more efficiently and effectively?

Achieving certification doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Growers can leverage resources such as technical guidelines, training workshops and expert consultants to support the certification process and improve their operations step by step. Additionally, digital recordkeeping solutions can streamline compliance, reducing paperwork and saving time. GLOBALG.A.P. offers short, publicly available educational videos on popular topics like risk assessments, continuous improvement and self-assessment, as well as informational webinars to dig deeper into key topics covered by the standards. Contact northamerica@globalgap.org to request more information about supporting resources and upcoming webinars and trainings.