Diversity and Inclusion embedded in our DNA

Inclusion and Diversity

I&D stands for Inclusion & Diversity – that is, a sense of belonging and diversity – and describes the commitment to creating a working environment in which everyone is respected, supported and included, regardless of their background, identity or life circumstances.

From Antoine Riboud’s speech in 1972, in which he outlined Danone’s dual mission, to our commitment as an ‘Entreprise à Mission’ and our Danone Impact Journey, diversity, equality and inclusion (I&D) have been an integral part of Danone’s DNA. Our goal is clear: we want to drive business success through social progress. I&D reflects our core values and shapes our commitment to being a force for good and driving meaningful, positive change.  

At Danone, we are committed to creating a diverse, equitable and inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and respected, and has the opportunity to contribute their unique talents. In doing so, we aim to build a team that reflects the communities in which we live, the partners with whom we work, and the customers and consumers we serve. Our aim is to unlock the potential of our people – regardless of who they are or where they come from. Everyone at Danone should feel empowered to develop and realise their full potential.

Our I&D goals and targets are integrated into the KPIs of the Danone Impact Journey and form part of our corporate objectives. What does that mean in practice?

Our policy against harassment and discrimination underscores our commitment to an inclusive working environment where individuality is celebrated and contributions are valued – and where everyone is treated with dignity and respect.
In addition, our 100% flexible working time models and our global parental policy provide further support for working parents and carers.
We remain committed to achieving gender balance in management, and the gender pay gap in the DACH region has already been closed. 
We aim to successfully address all other dimensions of diversity as well. To this end, as a signatory to the ‘Charta der Vielfalt’, we are committed to creating a respectful working environment for all employees – regardless of age, ethnic origin and nationality, gender and gender identity, physical and mental abilities, religion and belief, sexual orientation and social background.

To ensure a safe and welcoming environment, all employees are required to complete training on harassment and discrimination. We also encourage all employees and external partners to report any (including potentially) inappropriate behaviour they experience or observe via the Danone Ethics Line.

We are also proud to hold the Fair Wage Network’s Living Wage certification at a global level – a sign of our commitment to ensuring that all Danone employees and their families can meet their basic needs.