Editorial

The magical tryptich of sustainable development:

A pioneering vision,

an innovative mind and a social ethic

Sustainable development is a development which meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of  future generations to meet their own needs. In other words, it is a development which best balances out economical development with a respect for the environment and the social equilibrium.

It simultaneously carries two concepts:

• The idea of progress, inherent to the advancement of humanity
• The idea of preserving resources and options for future generations

But this approach must not rely on coercion, always source of extra costs. Incentives must prevail over regulatory measures. Companies are responsible for making sure supplier-client relations are ruled by contracts, for training and empowering their employees, without jeopardizing their competitive position and their survival.
Because of its business (the temperature-controlled supply chain), the nature of its facilities and equipment (fuel for transport, electricity and water for cold storage), its  role at the heart of  food logistics, its structure and its financial size, the STEF group is in many ways concerned by the concept of sustainable development, in its environmental, social, technological, economical and regulatory dimensions.

Our highly regulated activity is geared to perishable or sensitive products and come in direct contact with populations. Our company has therefore always been concerned by the issues which come today under the umbrella of sustainable development. Its history is closely linked to progress made in cold technology, with changes in food consumption and therefore tied to people’s aspirations for security and a better life.

Last but not least, I want to stress that the large and stable share of  its capital (15,31%) owned by employees is one of STEF’s strengths. This brings an ethical dimension to our vision of sustainable development as it is experienced daily by our 15.000 employees. As shareholders, there are strongly committed to achieving a sustainable growth for their company.