Woodlands Dairy is a champion of community upliftment

In today's business landscape, companies face environmental, social and governance (ESG) challenges that are more critical and complex than ever before. When it comes to issues such as climate change, the consequences of failure are unimaginable and the impact of business decisions can be felt across the globe.

As such, Woodlands Dairy — one of SA's largest manufacturers of UHT milk, marketed under the First Choice brand — believes its responsibility extends beyond mere profitability; it strives to align its business success with making a lasting positive impact on the world. 

Based in Humansdorp, in the heart of the Eastern Cape dairy region, Woodlands Dairy began its sustainability journey in 2012, when it aligned its ESG initiatives with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. These linked goals serve as a blueprint for a peaceful and prosperous future for all, with a strong emphasis on protecting the environment for future generations.

Beyond Woodlands Dairy's substantial investment in renewable energy, biomass boilers, water recovery, regenerative farming and recyclable packaging, it is committed to uplifting its employees and the communities in which it operates. 

With over 1,700 employees, the company supports its workforce while stimulating the local economy. Its annual human capital development spend is invested in high-quality initiatives to upskill its staff. Additionally, it has boosted its annual corporate social investment (CSI) spend in the local area, focusing on feeding programmes and infrastructure development. 

In addition, the annual Woodlands Dairy Golf Day at St Francis Links raised substantial funds for St Francis Hospice, supporting it in its mission to provide comfort and care to patients and families facing life-limiting illnesses in the greater Nelson Mandela Bay and Kouga area. The company is proud to announce that the amount raised surpassed 2023's donation of R500,000, with a donation of R640,000 made to the hospice at the end of May.

Woodlands Dairy is also excited to announce a partnership with Springbok rugby player Manie Libbok and First Choice's award-winning High Protein Recovery drink. Libbok's roots in the dairy's hometown of Humansdorp reflects its commitment to community growth and prosperity. He is an inspiration to the youth of SA, having reached the pinnacle of his profession against all odds.

Woodlands Dairy is proud of the strides it has made in the 13 years since it embarked on its sustainability journey. The company's commitment to creating a better world for all remains unwavering; it is dedicated to uplifting its staff and supporting its chosen CSI projects, empowering individuals to build a brighter future for themselves and their communities. 

This article was sponsored by Woodlands Dairy.