Hershey Takes a Stand for Sustainable Cocoa with Groundbreaking Agreement
In a significant move towards its ‘Cocoa For Good’ strategy, The Hershey Company has announced a five-year agreement with nine cocoa-producing cooperatives in Côte d’Ivoire. This partnership marks a major step in Hershey’s ten-year, $500 million commitment to address the complex challenges faced by cocoa farmers and foster a more sustainable cocoa supply chain.
The agreement, signed during the annual National Cocoa and Chocolate Days held in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, is based on a memorandum of understanding between Hershey, Sucden, and the nine cooperatives. Its core objective is to build lasting relationships with farmers that empower them to achieve greater profitability, improve their livelihoods, and ensure the long-term sustainability of cocoa farming.
Key Pillars of the Agreement:
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Professionalization of Cocoa Farming:
The agreement emphasizes supporting farmers in adopting modern farming techniques and best practices to enhance productivity and profitability.*
Investment in Community Wellbeing:
The partnership will invest in community-based resources that improve overall household well-being, including access to education, healthcare, and infrastructure.*
Environmental Protection and Farm Resilience:
The agreement prioritizes environmental conservation, including promoting sustainable land use practices, reducing deforestation, and building resilience against climate change.Long-Term Collaboration for Lasting Impact:
This long-term collaboration among Hershey, Sucden, and the cooperatives provides stability for farmers and enables a more direct approach to addressing challenges on the ground. This collaborative model is crucial for building trust and fostering sustainable change.
“Improving farmer incomes requires a holistic approach and collaboration across public and private sectors,” said Tricia Brannigan, Vice President, Chief Procurement Officer for Hershey. “Collaboration happens best when you have trust. Trust is built over time through strong, long-lasting relationships.”
Aligning with National Strategy for Sustainable Cocoa:
The agreement aligns with Côte d’Ivoire’s National Strategy for Sustainable Cocoa, which aims to ensure a coordinated and lasting approach to addressing key challenges within the Ivorian cocoa sector. Hershey’s commitment demonstrates its support for this national strategy and its dedication to contributing to a more sustainable cocoa industry.
Building on Existing Investments:
This latest agreement is a testament to Hershey’s ongoing efforts to invest in the well-being of cocoa farming communities. In addition to its $500 million ‘Cocoa For Good’ investment, Hershey launched the $40 million Income Accelerator program in 2023. The company also actively funds the construction of primary schools in farming communities through an agreement with the National Oversight Committee for Actions to Fight Child Labor, Trafficking and Exploitation and the International Cocoa Initiative.
Hershey’s commitment to improving farmer livelihoods, prioritizing children’s well-being, and protecting the environment demonstrates a deep understanding of the importance of sustainable cocoa production and its positive impact on the lives of farmers and communities. The company invites all to learn more about its initiatives at https://www.thehersheycompany.com/en_us/home/sustainability/sustainability-focus-areas/cocoa.html.
About The Hershey Company:
The Hershey Company is a leading snacks company renowned for its iconic brands, exceptional people, and unwavering commitment to ethical business practices. With over 20,000 employees worldwide, Hershey delivers delicious, high-quality products enjoyed by millions globally.
For more information about The Hershey Company and its initiatives, visit www.thehersheycompany.com.
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