Sustainability at the Heart of Excellence Awards

Sustainability at the Heart of Excellence Awards

The shortlist for the 2024 Food Manufacturer Excellence Awards 2024 has been announced. Looking at the credentials of these six companies, it’s clear that they balance quality products and growth opportunities with Environmental Social Governance (ESG) to drive sustainability goals. The winner will be announced in early February, so let’s look at four brands that are in the running.

Buckinghamshire Businesses

Closest to us is the UK’s largest dairy, one of nine sites managed by Arla. Specialising in milk and cheese, Arla is built on a cooperative business model. This means that farmers own the business and benefit from the profits. Goals to become a net zero organisation are underway with renewable energy being one step towards minimising carbon emissions.

Arla also works with farmers on their environmental strategy, helping to promote farming methods that benefit land biodiversity. The business also employs sustainability managers at each site to ensure continuous improvement.

Another Buckinghamshire business has also been shortlisted. Beechdean Dairy is a privately owned family business, which specialises in ice cream. The delicious ice creams are churned from rich milk and contain no artificial colourings, flavourings or additives. Surely, that makes them good for you! From humble beginnings in 1989, the company is now the UK’s third-largest ice cream producer.

All Beechdean products are sold in 100% recyclable packaging, including cardboard 1L tubs. The company is also working towards generating 50% of energy from renewable sources, with solar panels being installed on-site.

Cupboard Delights

The Tracklement Company is a multi-award-winning company, so could the Food Excellence Award be their next accolade? As producers of quality condiments, the business has achieved ISO 14001 and B Corp certification for its commitment to sustainability. So, if you love mustards, chutneys and sauces to liven up your meals, give them a try!

In the summer, 100% of energy used is produced through on-site solar panels and other renewable sources help power the cooler months. The company only use 100% recyclable packaging, including glass jars, cardboard boxes and home compostable fillers.

The pantry wouldn’t be complete without herbs, spices and dried goods. This is where Sleaford Quality Foods is a specialist. They’ve worked on an ethical supply chain, where sustainability is a priority. From recycled packaging, fair trade with global farmers and a proactive approach to reducing water consumption, this business is in the running for the award.

It will be a tough job for the judges, as all of these businesses deserve recognition. However, for businesses keen to learn how to create and grow a successful company whilst minimising environmental impact, they all provide inspiration. Embracing sustainability isn’t a bolt on, it is a fully embedded principle. What’s more these ethical values are likely to have contributed to them being trusted British brands.

Sustainable Cardboard Packaging

If your company are working towards ISO 14001, B Corp certification or other environmental accreditation, you can benefit from the services of an FSC® certified packaging manufacturer.

As specialists in cardboard packaging, Aylesbury Box Company can help you evidence supply chain sustainability. Our products include 100% recycled and recyclable boxes, as well as moisture-resistant coatings for cardboard packaging, that don’t compromise recyclability. So, if you would like to find out more, give us a call on 01296 436888 or enquiries@abcbox.co.uk.