STILL receives platinum sustainability certificate

Following the already very good 'Gold' ratings of previous years, the internationally recognised rating agency EcoVadis has this year awarded the Hamburg-based intralogistics company STILL its platinum sustainability certificate for the first time – it is the highest rating level. Only one per cent of all the companies evaluated have achieved a similarly outstanding result. STILL receives above-average scores in all four sustainability areas. Especially in the categories 'environmental management' and 'labour and human rights', EcoVadis awards STILL top marks with more than twice as many points as the average of all the companies surveyed. STILL also achieves very good scores in the areas of 'ethics' and 'sustainable procurement'.

Sustainable corporate governance as the basis for a successful future

"The platinum rating makes us very proud. It is a worthy, independent confirmation of our ongoing efforts to consistently align our business activities throughout the company with the highest social, environmental and ethical standards," declares Frank Müller, Senior Vice President STILL Brand Management. "And it is proof that we are not resting on our laurels. Rather, we see it as an incentive to re-examine our processes and make further improvements and innovations." This has long been about more than a positive image. Responsible use of resources and high social standards have become the basis of business success and relevant distinguishing features in the global competition for customers, orders and employees. "It is our joint responsibility to shape a sustainable economy fit for the future. We are happy to take the lead in this direction, setting new standards, establishing processes and constantly identifying new potential for optimisation," emphasises Frank Müller. At STILL, the guiding principles of corporate social responsibility (CSR) are firmly anchored in the company's mission statement and are continuously monitored and improved. The regular review of CSR standards by the independent rating agency EcoVadis is an important component of this strategy. STILL has therefore been regularly audited by EcoVadis for more than ten years.

Company-wide management systems ensure compliance with sustainability standards in all areas

Last year already, EcoVadis especially highlighted the innovative management systems that STILL uses in the areas of 'environmental management' and 'labour and human rights' to make the consistent implementation of the company's values and guidelines measurable and transparent, to anchor them strategically and to continuously optimise processes. In the context of integrated environmental management, this includes the establishment of the 'Health, Safety and Environmental Standards' guideline, which promotes the company-wide reduction of emissions in accordance with national legislation.

EcoVadis also rates this strategic approach as particularly positive in this year's assessment in the categories "ethics" and "sustainable procurement". In the area of "ethics", this includes, for example, the guidelines against fraud, money laundering or corruption, as well as the corresponding operational means to ensure their reliable and company-wide compliance. This covers a variety of processes, including the protection of whistle blowers or the dealing with corruption. Comprehensive documentation through appropriate internal and external reporting ensures maximum transparency as well as the continuous development and optimisation of these guidelines.