Cadbury-maker Mondelez Australia has unveiled its inaugural economic and social report, titled “Mondelez Australia Making the Right Impact,” providing a comprehensive overview of its contributions to the Australian economy and local communities in 2022.
The report revealed that Mondelez International, renowned for brands like Cadbury Dairy Milk, OREO cookies, and Philadelphia Cream Cheese, made a substantial economic impact, amounting to nearly AUD 1 billion in overall gross value added.
The company emphasised its commitment to local production, with 90 per cent of products manufactured domestically across seven plants, utilising Australian-sourced ingredients such as sugar cane and fresh milk.
Darren O’Brien, president of Mondelez Australia Japan, Australia, New Zealand, highlighted the significance of being a global company with local roots and a national focus, resonating with consumers increasingly interested in the origins and production of their snacks.
“Australian consumers are taking a view right across our value chain. They want to know where their snacks come from, how they’re made and who makes them. That’s why we’re releasing our 2022 economic and social contribution report: Mondelez Australia Making the Right Impact,” he explained.
The report outlined the company’s commitment to driving innovative, sustainable growth throughout its value chain.
Notable achievements include a 46 per cent increase in annual domestic procurement since 2019, with over $970 million sourced from more than 700 local producers and service suppliers.
The company’s dedication to sustainability is further exemplified by its substantial investments in Australian manufacturing, totalling $402 million since 2019.
Mondelez Australia’s Ringwood, Scoresby, and Dandenong manufacturing sites exclusively use 100 per cent renewable electricity.
Carbon emissions across the supply chain have been reduced by an impressive 62 per cent since 2018.
Looking ahead, Mondelez Australia plans to open a state-of-the-art manufacturing and distribution facility in Truganina, Melbourne, in 2024, expanding its network to eight facilities.
The company said it aspires to become the most sustainable snacking company in Australia, underscoring its responsibility to lead in this space.
In a significant move, Mondelez Australia has invested in Licella Holdings to support the construction of one of Australia’s first advanced recycling facilities.
The collaboration aims to create a circular economy for soft plastic waste, showcasing the company’s commitment to addressing environmental challenges.
The company’s impact on employment is noteworthy, with over 6,000 people involved in Mondelez Australia’s value chain in 2022.
Direct employment reached 2,050 people, and an additional 4,024 jobs were supported indirectly.
The report underscored Mondelez Australia’s commitment to investing in its workforce, with the average employee tenure at the Hobart factory being an impressive 21 years.
In addition to economic contributions, Mondelez Australia actively supports local communities with initiatives like the Cadbury Women in Sport program, a decade-long investment of nearly $50 million in Australian sport, and partnerships with organisations like SecondBite and various zoos demonstrate the company’s commitment to social responsibility.
Notably, OREO commenced a three-year investment in the Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras in 2022, further showcasing Mondelez Australia’s dedication to diversity and community support.
