Smurfit Kappa recognised for its long-term contribution to Colombia
November 21, 2019Smurfit Kappa has been awarded the prestigious “Order of San Carlos”
medal from the Colombian Government for 75 years of dedication to the
country.
Smurfit Kappa Colombia has continuously invested in job creation, innovation
and sustainability.
The award was also recognition for Smurfit Kappa Colombia´s leadership in the
development of renewable, recyclable and biodegradable packaging, as well as
the work it has done to support and develop recycling infrastructure.
The packaging leader also has a strong track record in corporate social responsibility
which it runs through the Smurfit Kappa Colombia Foundation which was
established in the 1960s and benefits more than 10,000 people in surrounding
communities. Projects have a focus on grass-roots development, sustainable
living and active citizenship.
Smurfit Kappa Group CEO Tony Smurfit, who was there to accept the award, said:
“It is an extraordinary privilege for me to be here to mark our 75th year in
business in this amazing country.
“I am so proud of what we as a company have accomplished in Colombia and I, my
colleagues, and all previous generations of workers are all honoured that
Colombia is bestowing the Order of San Carlos award on us.”
Álvaro José Henao Ramos, CEO of Smurfit Kappa Colombia, added: “We are
very proud of receiving this award from the Government, because we see it as
recognition of 75 years of work with our customers, employees, suppliers and
communities.
“We will continue to develop innovative and sustainable packaging solutions
that contribute to the growth of our customers’ businesses and we will do this
by continuing to rely on the talent, expertise and passion that makes our
people truly unique.”
Carlos Holmes Trujillo, Colombia’s Foreign Affairs Minister, said: “The history
of Smurfit Kappa Colombia is remarkable and goes beyond its business
leadership. It has generated inclusion and shared value through its social
responsibility programmes.”