SUSTAINABILITY
We need the environment. And goals.
We need nature, and we need clear goals to protect it. For us, sustainability isn’t just talk – it’s daily action. Driven by clear facts and figures, we demonstrate how we balance the environment, business and social accountability and take responsibility for the future.
Employees
1500
Number of trainees
90
Locations
5
ZNU certified locations
3
ISO 50001-certified locations
4
RESPONSIBILITY ROOTED IN TRADITION
Sustainability at Bauer
As a fifth-generation family business, we don't think in short-term objectives but instead adopt perspectives that span generations. Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword for us; it’s a core value that defines our actions – from trainees to management.
Our approach rests on the three pillars of sustainability: Environment, Business, and Society. We believe that harmonious interaction between these areas enables a worthwhile future. That’s why sustainability is firmly anchored in the company’s vision and mission:
Vision
We bring moments of joy to every table. Day after day, generation after generation. Natural. Reliable. Respectful.
Mission
Together, we’re stronger – our diverse expertise, curiosity, and openness to sustainable growth.
CERTIFIED SUSTAINABILITY
ZNU Standard
Setting goals, surpassing them, and shaping the future
The ZNU standard was developed by the Centre for Sustainable Leadership and encourages companies to live sustainability holistically. This approach demands constant improvements in the environmental, economic and social areas - exactly what we at Bauer strive for every day.
With our ZNU certification, we are not only focussing on progress, but also on transparency. We are constantly working to optimise our processes and exceed our sustainability targets. Our goal: a company that not only assumes responsibility today, but also remains a reliable partner for the generations of tomorrow.
Together, we’re shaping a sustainable future – one step at a time.
ENVIRONMENT
Reducing CO₂, using green electricity, acting locally
Whether CO₂ reduction, 100% green electricity, regional value creation, or sustainable packaging – we rely on modern technologies, cooperative projects, and true commitment. Our goal: Conserve resources, improve processes, and take responsibility.
OUR PATH TO GREATER CLIMATE PROTECTION
Avoid, reduce, compensate
A core focus of our strategic action areas lies in decarbonization and the development of a climate-neutral product range. We aim to reduce emissions both at our own sites and along the upstream and downstream value chain. To this end, we plan to commit to SBTi in 2025 and set climate goals.
Even today, we are relying on modern, energy-efficient technologies to future-proof our operations. A central element of our climate protection strategy is our energy management system in accordance with ISO 50001.
All of our manufacturing companies have been certified to ISO 50001 for some time and continuously strive for improvement. ISO 50001 is an international standard aimed at systematically optimizing an organization’s energy performance.
This standard helps companies increase energy efficiency, reduce energy costs, and lower greenhouse gas emissions. To achieve this, ISO 50001 requires organizations to develop a clear energy policy, define specific goals and action plans, monitor energy flows, and continuously track results. Step by step, we expand and refine this system to meet our sustainability goals.
ECOLOGICAL GOAL
More sustainable packaging
Packaging plays a vital role in food safety, ensuring secure transport and product protection. However, it also contributes significantly to the growing waste problem. At Bauer Group, we are tackling this issue head-on. Our packaging development team is committed to innovative approaches and packaging reduction to make a positive environmental impact.
Our goal is for all packaging to be highly recyclable by 2027. Whether yogurt cups or cheese wrap, this promise applies to every Bauer product. We are also actively searching for sustainable packaging alternatives. In the meantime, we are reducing plastic content to the bare minimum.
We always aim to find the most sustainable solution possible. Enjoyment with a clear conscience.
BUSINESS
Shaping progress, preserving resources
We think about business holistically: efficiently, sustainably, and future-ready. With clear goals, we continuously optimize our processes – fewer losses, greater impact. By the end of 2025, we aim to reduce our material and product losses by 17.5%. Every saved resource counts. At the same time, we actively shape the future of nutrition. In this way, we combine success in business with responsibility.
ECOLOGICAL GOAL
Boosting efficiency, preserving what matters, safeguarding the future
We are systematically working to take greater responsibility within our supply chain. This includes not only our key raw material suppliers, such as farmers and cows, but also environmental and social standards throughout the entire chain.
By closely collaborating with our partners and continuously reviewing our processes, we strive to achieve the highest standards in sustainability and social responsibility.
SOCIAL
Safe, healthy, united – we look out for one another
People are at the heart of everything we do. Across production, administration, and training, we foster a work environment built on safety, health, and community. With certified health management, targeted occupational safety measures, and strong teams, we take shared responsibility. At the same time, we invest in personal development, high-quality training, and long-term prospects.
HEALTH AND SAFETY
Responsibility we share
Each one of us is responsible for workplace safety and health – because safety is a team effort! Specially trained experts and managers support us as reliable safety partners. Together, we have implemented numerous measures to ensure a safe and healthy work environment.
One example is our custom-fitted hearing protection, which combines comfort with optimal protection. We also prioritize the mental well-being of our employees: In 2024, we conducted a survey on psychological stress at our Wasserburg site. The results directly inform targeted measures.
SOCIAL GOAL
At the Bauer Group, safety and stability come first – both in our jobs and our daily working lives. But despite all precautions, accidents can happen. That’s why we are doing everything we can to continually reduce workplace accidents and improve year after year.
EMPLOYEES
One family, united and strong
We’re proud to be one big family – and many of our “family members” stay with us for decades, some for their entire careers. With us, expiration dates only apply to food products – most of our employees work in permanent contracts.
The project “Filling all open apprenticeships” is being carried out across the entire group to ensure we’re well equipped for the future. For newcomers, we offer apprenticeships and dual study programs with excellent chances of permanent employment.
