With nearly all of the discussion about supply chain disruption focusing on the financial implications, yoghurt company Chobani decided to take a different approach. Kim Berry looks at how Fruit for Good is making a difference.
Chobani has long had a philosophy of being a purpose-led enterprise. Its latest product, a yoghurt called Fruit for Good, is an example of that in action.
The company is donating 100 per cent of profits from the yoghurt’s sale to food rescue organisation Foodbank Australia. In a twist, it also inspired its supply chain partners to do the same, maximising the donation per unit.
And those partners have impressive credentials. Woolworths, a key retail partner; MPD/ADFC Milk, key dairy partner; Visy, shipping supplier; The Van Dyke Press, foil supplier; and PakPot, pot supplier.
To appreciate how a company can manifest this level of collaboration, it’s best to turn to its founder and global CEO Hamdi Ulukaya.
A passionate believer in the power of people and community, Hamdi has been named an eminent advocate by the United Nations Refugee Agency for his work with refugees. He has received the UN Foundation Global Leadership Award and been named one of Time’s 100 Most Influential People in the World for his charity work and business philosophy.
The company is steeped in the belief that business has the power to change lives and strengthen communities.
Chobani Australia head of supply chain Hamish McMicking says, “Fruit for Good shows the collective influence businesses can have to strengthen communities and livelihoods.
“We knew we were onto something special when suppliers and partners along our supply chain wanted to jump on board and support this collaboration with Foodbank Victoria.”
Fruit for Good is also the first project of its kind for Foodbank, with the food rescue agency working with Chobani to create the flavour.
MPD Dairy Products commercial director Campbell King paid credit to Chobani’s approach to social impact.
“When Chobani approached us with this unique approach to donation, we were eager to help. We have all got a role to play in giving back to our communities, and Fruit for Good presented the opportunity to donate the profits directly to people in need,” King says.
McMicking adds, “Not only is this a testament to our long-standing, robust supplier relationships, but also the willingness of the business community to reduce the prevalence of food insecurity in Australia.”
It was important for Chobani the yoghurt be widely available to consumers. Woolworths agreeing to the project ensured that would happen.
Woolworths Chilled Category manager James MacMahon says the project resonated with the retail giant and its commitment to support communities.
“We’ve partnered with Foodbank Australia for many years and now in partnership with Chobani, we look forward to supporting their mission of equipping front-line charities with food relief for millions of Australians,” MacMahon says.
Chobani is a long-term partner of Foodbank Victoria, donating fresh product weekly to support its work. Since 2012, Chobani has donated the equivalent of more than one million meals to the organisation.
There is no denying the seriousness of global supply chain disruptions stemming from the pandemic and exacerbated by climate events and geopolitical instability, which is all the more reason to seek out projects such as Fruit for Good that shine a light on what can be achieved, even in times of uncertainty.
