Sodexo, a globally renowned catering and integrated facilities management service provider, recently concluded the Asia-Pacific, Middle East, and Africa (APMEA) regional finals of its "Cook for Change! Sustainable Cooking Competition" in Shanghai. This global event, centered on low-carbon plant-based dishes, showcased culinary creativity to bring sustainability to the dining table. As a company that integrated sustainability into its core strategy early on, Sodexo's practices extend far beyond competitions. On the occasion of its 30th anniversary in China, we spoke with Isabelle Hannedouche, Chair and Managing Director of Sodexo Greater China, to explore how the company translates its global sustainability vision into localized action, balancing taste, health, and environmental responsibility for long-term value.
**The 2028 Vision: Sustainable Actions for Employees, Plates, and Communities** Hannedouche explained that Sodexo, founded in 1966 by Pierre Bellon, remains committed to its mission of "creating a better every day" through generations of family leadership. The company’s purpose goes beyond catering and facilities management—it’s about improving lives and protecting the planet. Sodexo’s sustainability agenda is built on three pillars under its "Better Tomorrow 2028" roadmap:
1. **Employee Commitment**: With over 426,000 employees worldwide, Sodexo prioritizes inclusivity, health, and safety. By 2026, each employee will receive 15 hours of annual training to embed sustainability into daily operations. 2. **Client Value**: By 2030, 70% of global menus will meet WWF’s "Planet-Friendly" standards, with localized adaptations to respect cultural preferences. The company also aims to halve food waste by 2028. 3. **Planetary and Social Responsibility**: Sodexo targets net-zero emissions by 2040 and actively supports community initiatives, positioning itself among the first global firms to adopt this goal.
**Localizing Sustainability in China: The SoGreen Framework** Hannedouche emphasized adapting global visions to local contexts. Sodexo’s "SoGreen Framework" for China focuses on: - **Green Mind**: Raising awareness through training and community programs like "Servathon to Care," which provides nutritious meals for elderly chronic disease patients in Shanghai. - **Green Food**: Reducing waste via the "WasteWatch" program (cutting waste by 30% at 182 sites) and promoting sustainable cooking. Sodexo China recently earned a "Green Supply Chain" certification, a first for the catering industry. - **Green Space**: Enhancing energy efficiency, water conservation, and renewable energy use in facilities.
**"In China, For China": Localization Driven by Confidence, Trust, and Conviction** Hannedouche noted China’s growing focus on sustainability, with consumers increasingly valuing health and environmental impact. Sodexo’s strategy—such as promoting cage-free eggs for their nutritional benefits—aligns with local priorities. The company’s acquisitions, including Shanghai Tuomei Medical Management and Compass Group’s China operations, reflect its long-term commitment.
Trust is built through employee engagement (82.5% global participation, 230+ jobs for disabled individuals in China) and partnerships. Meanwhile, conviction is demonstrated through tangible projects like reducing food waste and fostering inclusivity.
**AI-Era Service Upgrades: Efficiency, Warmth, and Sustainability** Sodexo integrates AI and digital tools to enhance experiences, such as its partnership with Meican for personalized online ordering and the "Golden Ideas" WeChat mini-program for recipe sharing. In healthcare, the YOU E+ system uses data analytics to tailor meals for patients and seniors, supporting recovery and well-being.
Hannedouche acknowledged China’s fast-paced market demands, stressing the need for agility and unique value propositions. Moving forward, Sodexo will deepen its human-centric sustainability approach to deliver distinctive experiences.
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