Orsenigo, October 14, 2024 – ICAM has presented its 2023 Sustainability Report, marking a significant step in its journey towards responsible and sustainable management. The document, prepared in accordance with Global Reporting Initiative Standards, not only highlights the achievements but also outlines the future goals of a company increasingly committed to creating shared value for its stakeholders.
Sustainability Governance: An Innovative Model In 2023, ICAM implemented a new sustainability governance model, involving its employees and external partners through a matrix structure aimed at facilitating processes and projects. This approach seeks to raise awareness throughout the company’s value chain, from collaborators to international suppliers, promoting responsible practices. The company has provided over 21,000 hours of employee training, engaged 6,900 farmers in Uganda in agronomic training programs, and purchased 26,068 tons of cocoa, mostly certified.
A Concrete Commitment to People Employee welfare is a priority for ICAM. With over 400 employees at its Italian headquarters and around 170 in Uganda, the company offers numerous benefits, including financial support for children’s education and performance-related bonuses. Additionally, ICAM promotes continuous learning and in 2023 provided Ugandan employees with training sessions on agronomic and management techniques. In Italy, the company collaborated with local associations like Banco Alimentare and Noi Genitori Onlus, demonstrating strong social commitment through donations and corporate volunteer days.
Sustainable and Traceable Supply Chain Responsible supply chain management is a fundamental pillar for ICAM, ensuring that 97% of its cocoa suppliers and 100% of other raw material suppliers adhere to its Ethical Code. Direct sourcing of cocoa, mainly from Africa and South America, allows the company to maintain precise control over the entire supply chain. In 2023, ICAM also began working with suppliers to geolocate farms, anticipating upcoming EU regulations on deforestation.
Innovation and Quality ICAM continues to innovate, developing products that align with new market trends. These include low-sugar chocolate and vegan, milk-free versions, which have earned certifications such as Organic, Fairtrade, and Vegan Quality. In 2023, the company developed 486 new recipes, showcasing its ongoing evolution in responding to the needs of a market increasingly focused on health and sustainability.
Environmental Sustainability Aware of the environmental impact of the cocoa supply chain, ICAM has launched studies to reduce its CO2 emissions, focusing on farms in Uganda and Peru. Additionally, the company is committed to optimizing the energy efficiency of its Orsenigo plant, which uses a trigeneration system to minimize environmental impact. In 2023, 97% of the organic waste generated by the company was recovered or reused.
A Long-Lasting Commitment With over 75 years of experience, ICAM reaffirms its leadership in sustainable chocolate production, fostering a corporate culture based on social, environmental, and economic responsibility. The 2023 Sustainability Report represents another step forward in this journey, showing that the company not only complies with regulations but actively works to drive change towards a more sustainable future.
