Always sustainable.
Our sustainability activities
As a modern producer cooperative, we are aware of our responsibility for future generations. Sustainability is a matter close to our hearts and firmly anchored in our corporate vision. The aim is to live up to the triad of economic, ecological and social responsibility today and in the future.
The planning and coordination of the measures is carried out by our sustainability management in collaboration with our sustainability team, which is made up of sustainability officers from the various business areas and the management. In addition, all employees at ELO complete a sustainability training that imparts knowledge on current topics in this area.
In our work, we are guided by the ZNU Standard for Sustainable Business and successfully passed our first certification audit in 2024.
Measurable Sustainability
In order to be able to closely track the progress in implementing the sustainability program, we measure it. To do this, we define project goals, concrete measures and key figures to create transparency on the path to achieving the goals. The key figures include economic, ecological, social and ethical criteria.
Ecological Sustainability
Climate and environment
We don't just want to grow and sell the best fruit and vegetables, we also want to keep the impact on the climate and the environment as low as possible. This starts with sustainable soil management and extends to the use of green electricity.
Our goal : By 2026, we aim to install photovoltaic panels on the roof of our logistics center to cover the majority of our electricity needs ourselves. By 2027, we also plan to switch the remaining purchased electricity to 100% green energy sourced from Germany.
Economically
We focus on quality
We attach great importance to the quality and safety of our products. Production follows the QS / GLOBALG.AP guidelines and is continued through an intensive quality management system (QS, IFS; BIO; Regionalfenster). Regular, independent inspections by the Landwirtschaftskammer Niedersachsen (Gartenbau) confirm the excellent quality of our products. We are constantly developing our quality management. We also rely on honest communication with our customers and business partners.
Our goal: In 2025, all our service providers will receive our Code of Conduct and commit to ensuring its guidelines with their signature.
Already achieved: All our producers signed our Code of Conduct in 2024.
In this Code of Conduct, we have specified what sustainability means to us. This includes topics such as fair wages, human rights, and more.
Social
Sustainably Satisfied Employees
We are firmly rooted in the region and position ourselves as a reliable and attractive employer.
The people who work for us are close to our hearts. To ensure a healthy and supportive work environment, we offer the following benefits, among others:
Flexible Working Models & Modern Workplace
Even within a seasonal operation, work-life balance and family-friendliness are important values for ELO. For example, all ELO screen workstations are equipped with height-adjustable desks, and the option to work remotely is actively promoted.
On-Site Catering
A balanced diet is essential for well-being. Therefore, we offer discounted healthy meals, free coffee, and fruit. Additionally, our cafeteria has a water dispenser to ensure refreshment at any time.
Corporate Fitness & E-Bike Leasing
In addition to the opportunity to participate in various health programs, sports activities, or stress management courses through EGYM Wellpass at participating fitness and wellness facilities, employees can also lease an e-bike through our leasing partner.
Team Building & Events
To strengthen cohesion at ELO and promote a positive corporate culture, various events take place annually, such as a "Mai-Tour" and a Christmas party.
Holiday pay, savings benefits, and a corporate pension plan
All permanent employees receive a holiday allowance of the same amount in July. We pay capital-forming benefits and offer all permanent employees the opportunity to set up a corporate pension plan after completing their probation period.
To understand the needs and concerns of our employees, we have been conducting regular employee satisfaction surveys since 2024. These surveys are based on the cultural assessment we conducted in 2023 and the company values derived from it.
Our goal: In 2023, we achieved an employee satisfaction score of 4.5*. Starting in 2025, we aim to maintain employee satisfaction at a consistent average score of at least grade 2.
*6-point scale from 1: very satisfied to 6: completely dissatisfied.
Code of Conduct
In order to implement our vision, we integrate defined principles and guidelines into our daily actions. Our code of conduct provides a framework for this and reflects our values.
We will be happy to answer your questions about our sustainability management at nachhaltigkeit@elo-online.de .
