URC unit named among Vietnam’s top sustainable firms

Gokongwei-led food and beverage giant Universal Robina Corp. (URC) said its Vietnam subsidiary was named one of that country’s top sustainable enterprises for a fourth-consecutive year, validating its efforts to combat climate change.

The company said URB Vietnam was recognized in the Top 100 Sustainable Development Enterprises in Vietnam, compiled by the Vietnam Business Council for Sustainable Development (VBCSD) under the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI).

“This recognition highlights URC Vietnam’s ongoing commitment to socio-economic growth and bringing the best to its consumers and the community,” said Jai Gamboa, URC Vietnam’s business unit general manager.

“This is an acknowledgment of the dedication of all our personnel for the firm to complete the screening requirements and establish a sustainable and strong business,” Gamboa added.

URC Vietnam started from a modest trading operation two decades ago before expanding its presence. It now has five factories across the country: three in Binh Duong, one in Quang Ngai and one in Hanoi.

It produces products such as ready-to-drink tea C2, energy drink Rong Do, Cream-O and Magic biscuits, Dynamite candies, Jack ‘n Jill Puff Corn and Chikki snacks.

URC Vietnam landed in the list after meeting the rigorous screening criteria of Vietnam’s Corporate Sustainability Index, which evaluates companies in the areas of economy, environment and society.

Moreover, it was also among the 33 organizations that were given awards by the President of Binh Duong People Committee for supporting children in Binh Duong province in 2022.

“URC’s Vietnam subsidiary is at the forefront of URC’s ongoing sustainability efforts. In 2019, it co-founded the Packaging Recycling Organization, PRO Vietnam, a voluntary not-for-profit initiative to improve packaging collection and recycling,” URC said in the statement.

“Overall, the company’s goals include significantly reducing energy and water usage in manufacturing, promoting responsible sourcing of key ingredients and achieving plastic neutrality. URC is carrying out sustainability strategies in six focus areas – People and Communities, Climate Action, Water, Product, Packaging and Sourcing,” it added.