Firmenich, the world's largest privately-owned perfume and taste company, has been recognized as the Most Sustainable Company in the Flavor and Fragrances Industry by World Finance magazine. Acknowledged as a leader in sustainability, Firmenich was praised for its comprehensive approach to sustainability, underpinned by its work to advance the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs). The judges also applauded the company’s efforts to tackle climate change, as well as its commitment to operating the most traceable and sustainable value chain.
“Entering our 125th anniversary year, we are honored to receive this award. It acknowledges our long-standing legacy as a responsible business. At Firmenich, we believe there can be no value creation for shareholders without values. That’s why we have an inclusive capitalism business model that makes a positive difference for all stakeholders: our customers, colleagues, shareholders, suppliers, communities and the planet,” Gilbert Ghostine, CEO Firmenich tells.
“This award pays tribute to our unique legacy of responsible business deeply entrenched in our values ever since our creation,” says Ghostine.
“Everyone at Firmenich has a role to play in tackling climate change,” he stresses.
Ghostine believes in leveraging science and expertise to address the most critical challenges, where Firmenich can make the biggest difference.
“We are making healthier food and beverage options taste delicious to tackle today’s malnutrition crisis with 2.1 billion adults overweight or obese in the world,” he continues. “Our latest technology TastePRINT can reduce up to 100 percent of added sugar naturally without compromising on taste. Last year alone we removed one trillion calories from their diets.”
Commitment to sustainability
World Finance highlighted Firmenich’s outstanding “commitment to sustainability” and its sustained drive “to make the business world a much greener place.” Praised as a “forward-thinking company,” Firmenich was commended for taking a long-term approach and embedding sustainability across its business.
Most recently, Firmenich was awarded the first IMD-Pictet Sustainability in Family Business award, as well as the Ethical Corporation Responsible Business Award 2019 for the group’s leadership in Diversity and Inclusion.
Firmenich currently operates with 100 percent renewable electricity in North America, Latin America, Europe, Africa and the Middle East, China and India, well on its way to achieving 100 percent worldwide at the end of 2020.
“Our long-term vision is to be the indisputable leader in environmental and social sustainability, tackling the climate emergency and improving the wellbeing of our stakeholders. We believe we can achieve all this while continuing to meet consumer expectations for healthy, ethical and traceable products,” adds Ghostine.
