Martin Eberle, Chief Financial Officer:

We want to care! This is a core value of our “Hellmann Promise” and we have been living it in the Hellmann FAMILY for generations. The fact that we can rely on each other and stand up for each other is what defines us and what Hellmann stands for in addition to its core business of logistics. We are there when it matters! For our colleagues, partners and, of course, for our customers! But people in the world around us also need our attention. From geopolitical conflicts and environmental disasters to ‘small’ individual fates – Hellmann assumes social responsibility out of the deepest conviction.«

Through the comprehensive activities of Hellmann helps and Hellmann Worldwide Logistics, we illustrate our shared ambition to take responsibility far beyond the boundaries of our company and to shape a sustainable and fair future for all. Our actions reflect the conviction that together we can make an inspiring difference in the world.

Hellmann helps e.V.

CARING is one of our core corporate values. As Hellmann FAMILY, we want to take care not only of each other, but also of other people who urgently need help. That is why colleagues from all over the Hellmann world have founded the non-profit association Hellmann helps e.V. Since 2022, it has been supporting sustainable projects in areas including youth and elderly care, education, environmental protection, and nature conservation. At the same time, Hellmann helps stands for equal opportunities and diversity – in the Hellmann world and beyond.

...read more

Thanks to the commitment and financial support of Hellmann colleagues and the shareholder families, a large number of projects were also initiated and supported in 2023: In addition to many smaller initiatives, direct financial aid provided for earthquake victims in Türkiye and Syria deserves special mention here. Thanks to the overwhelming willingness of the entire Hellmann FAMILY to donate, Hellmann helps was able to provide financial support of around 20,000 euros to our colleagues’ relatives. We have thus made an important contribution to renting and furnishing new apartments, for example, and thus building new livelihoods. At the same time, the association also organized the donation and transport of 20,000 toys to the earthquake region, bringing a little joy to the children affected. In addition, the large-scale fundraising campaign “SWIM FOR PEACE – FUTURE FOR CHILDREN” raised 100,000 euros, which will benefit two orphanages in western Ukraine to help traumatized children and improve their living conditions.

Violence prevention was also a topic that the association addressed in the reporting year: To mark the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women on November 25, Hellmann trainees painted thirty wooden benches orange and provided them with emergency numbers for victims and (potential) perpetrators. Under the motto “Orange The World” proclaimed by the United Nations, the benches were subsequently set up centrally at Hellmann locations throughout Germany to set an example against violence. As part of this campaign, the trainees also took part in a prevention training course. On the one hand, the aim was to raise awareness of where violence begins, and on the other hand, methods were taught on how violence can be actively prevented. Hellmann has also worked closely with Terre des Hommes for many years and specifically supports projects that benefit children worldwide. Most recently, Hellmann helps supported a project for children and families in the Cambodian regions of Chum Kiri and Chhuk. The main aim was to raise awareness of children‘s rights. Parents, teachers, and community members were sensitized and trained in non-violent conflict resolution methods through training courses and workshops. Selfhelp groups were also set up as part of the project to support families in overcoming poverty.

Through the exchange of knowledge and the joint implementation of income generation projects, many families have been able to build up a sustainable source of income and strengthen their livelihoods. This not only has a direct impact on the families‘ financial situation, but also helps to strengthen the community and reduce dependence on external support. Furthermore, considerable progress has been made in terms of hygiene and water supply. Through the construction of wells, latrines, and hygiene training, we have been able to improve living conditions and curb the spread of disease. This has led to a noticeable improvement in the general state of health and well-being of the community members. This long-term partnership also illustrates our desire to bring about positive change in the world and, in particular, to improve the future prospects of children.

Hellmann in action

However, outside of the Hellmann helps association, a large number of initiatives were also implemented in the individual regions of the Hellmann world over the course of 2023. As part of the UN campaign “UNITE to Act”, we summarized many of these actions and were thus able to express our commitment to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Each project aims to take concrete steps towards a more sustainable and fairer world by focusing on specific SDGs. We were able to implement several projects in the areas of climate protection and environmental awareness.

...read more

The “Delhi Run for Clean Air” campaign, in which we drew attention to air pollution in the Indian metropolis, made a direct contribution to SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) and SDG 13 (Climate Action).

The installation of a photovoltaic system in Bremen illustrates our commitment to SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy). By using renewable energies, we aim to reduce our CO₂ emissions and support the transition to a sustainable energy supply.

Our tree planting campaigns in Sri Lanka and Costa Rica contributed to SDG 13 (Climate Action), SDG 15 (Life on Land) and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). These projects show how we contribute to the promotion of biodiversity and climate protection through practical measures.

The establishment of the representative body for people with disabilities underlines our commitment to SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities). By promoting an inclusive working environment in which the rights and needs of people with disabilities are respected, we strengthen equality and inclusion.

The partnership with Dronamics for the use of remote controlled cargo drones is an example of our commitment to SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) and SDG 13 (Climate Action). This project shows how innovation can contribute to more efficient and environmentally friendly logistics.

Through our collaboration with the Maletsati Foundation in South Africa, we demonstrated our commitment to SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) and SDG 3 (Good Health and Wellbeing). By advocating for the nutrition and well-being of orphans and vulnerable communities, we are helping to fight hunger and improve living conditions.

On the occasion of World Oceans Day and through our beach clean-up campaigns, we are demonstrating our commitment to SDG 14 (Life Below Water) and highlighting the importance of combating marine pollution and protecting our ocean ecosystems.

Our work in South Africa to support 15 African learners with disabilities, primarily women, reflects our commitment to SDG 5 (Gender Equality) and SDG 4 (Quality Education). We support gender equality and empowerment by promoting vocational training and creating income-generating opportunities.