In 2008 Woolworths won the International Responsible Retailer of the Year at the World Retail Congress. And it's all thanks to their Good Business Journey.
In 2009 they were again short-listed for this coveted international accolade. But what is it all about? Simon Susman, CEO of Woolworths Holdings, explains: "It is becoming increasingly obvious to all businesses that sustainable growth can only be achieved through greater attention to the world around us than has been the case in the past. The links between economic growth, transformation, poverty alleviation, the environment and climate change can either form a vicious or a virtuous circle."
For the past 75 years, these issues have always been at the heart of Woolworths, but the launch of the Woolworths ‘Good Business Journey’ marks a step change in the way they will operate going forward, ensuring they drive that virtuous circle that will benefit all of their stakeholders”
The Good Business Journey is an acceleration of Woolworths ongoing commitment to meet the increasing needs of South African consumers while considering the changing social and environmental needs of our country. They've incorporated a series of challenging targets and commitments, centred on four key priorities:
- Accelerating transformation through, eg, advance skills development and equity ownership and pushing the 'South Africa First' approach
- Driving social development through increasing social contributions to more than R300 million a year
- Enhancing their environmental focus by increasing organic and free range goods, recycling and promoting healthy lifestyles
- Addressing climate change by reducing relative carbon footprint by 30%.
These are just a few key issues Woolworths is committed to. It's a philosophy that not only ensures you buy the best quality from them, but they - and you - are looking after the Earth and its people while you're at it. To find out more, visit Woolworths Holdings