E.Wedel, as an international chocolate products' manufacturer, is taking various initiatives to build its credibility along with its history and tradition through ESG actions.

ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) initiatives are crucial for modern businesses as they address the growing demand for sustainable and ethical practices. These initiatives help companies reduce their environmental footprint, promote social equity and ensure strong corporate governance, aligning business goals with global sustainability challenges. ESG practices not only enhance a company's reputation but also attract socially conscious investors, customers and employees. By integrating ESG into their operations, businesses can foster long-term resilience, drive innovation and contribute positively to society while achieving sustainable growth.

On December 3rd we celebrated International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD). That was an occasion to reflect on the achievements of the CzekoSprawni, a program launched by E.Wedel in 2021. The initiative has successfully increased the employment rate of persons with disabilities (PwD) in our company from 0.85% to an impressive 5.92%. This innovative program aims to promote both employment opportunities and disability awareness within E.Wedel, ensuring an inclusive and supportive workplace for everyone.

Building a more inclusive workplace at E.Wedel

The core objective of the CzekoSprawni program is to create a work environment where diversity is celebrated and individuals with disabilities feel valued. To achieve this, E.Wedel has introduced numerous measures, starting from recruitment to ongoing support for employees.

Key steps taken:

1. Accessible recruitment process:

   • E.Wedel has ensured that job postings are accessible and inclusive, removing barriers that might deter potential candidates with disabilities.

   • The company’s employer profile has been updated to reflect its commitment to diversity and inclusivity.

2. Specialist support:

   • A dedicated role, the Specialist for support of persons with disabilities, was created to provide guidance during recruitment and throughout employment. This role ensures that both employees and their teams receive tailored assistance to meet their specific needs.

3. Ongoing monitoring and improvement:

   • Regular feedback is gathered from employees, supervisors, and collaborating teams to refine and enhance the program.

Educational initiatives and partnerships

The CzekoSprawni program extends beyond employment, focusing on educating employees and raising awareness about the challenges faced by persons with disabilities.

In partnership with Fundacja Avalon (“Avalon Foundation”), E.Wedel has organized four workshops under the "Path to Employment" project. These sessions provide practical advice for PwD on job hunting and professional development. A specialized evacuation training was conducted to ensure the safety of all employees, including those with disabilities, during emergencies.

Wedel Diversity Day

As part of Diversity Day celebrations, E.Wedel introduced the CzekoSprawni station, where employees could:

• Experience different types of disabilities symbolically.

• Test their knowledge of disability issues.

• Learn about the lives of visually impaired individuals through collaboration with Fundacja Vis Major (“Vis Major Foundation”).

Advocacy and industry engagement

E.Wedel is committed to sharing its best practices and advocating for increased inclusivity across industries. Here are E.Wedel’s notable contributions:

1. The event “Kariera na TAK” („YES for the CAREER):

During this event promoting employment for PwD, E.Wedel’s specialists shared insights on achieving professional and social activity despite disabilities. This engagement continued with contributions to the report “Employer on YES – Rational Adjustments in the Workplace,” showcasing E.Wedel’s practices.

2. Network power congress:

At the Rzeszów University of Technology, E.Wedel discussed the challenges and opportunities in vocational activation for PwD, emphasizing the importance of diversity.

3. Inclu(vi)sion Partnership:

Since 2022, E.Wedel has partnered with Fundacja Aktywizacja (“Aktywizacja Foundation”) under the Inclu(vi)sion initiative, focusing on creating an inclusive work environment.

Recognitions and achievements

The success of the CzekoSprawni program has not gone unnoticed. In 2024, E.Wedel received the prestigious Employer worth trust award in the category of openness to persons with disabilities. This accolade reflects the company’s dedication to fostering an inclusive workplace that benefits both employees and the organization as a whole.

Educational campaigns: inspiring and equipping PwD

#ActivateRecruitment campaign:

E.Wedel collaborated with Fundacja Aktywizacja to launch a series of educational materials under the #ActivateRecruitment campaign. The campaign covered such topics as:

• How to create an effective CV?

• Tips for presenting yourself during interviews.

• Key steps in the job-seeking process.

The materials were designed to empower PwD with the knowledge and confidence needed to secure their dream jobs.

Expanding accessibility: architectural audits

To ensure inclusivity, E.Wedel conducted an architectural accessibility audit of its office spaces in collaboration with Fundacja Polska Bez Barier (“Poland Without Barriers Foundation”). The audit identified areas for improvement, and the company is actively implementing recommendations to make its facilities more accessible to everyone.

Following events and initiatives

While December marked the end of the calendar year, it was not the end of E.Wedel’s efforts under the CzekoSprawni program. Exciting events took place to close the year with impactful engagements:

• Virtual Job Fair for PwD (December 3rd): E.Wedel representatives shared insights into working at the company.

• International Day of PwD Congress (December 5th): At the Palace of Culture and Science in Warsaw, E.Wedel participated in a panel discussion on employment challenges and opportunities for PwD.

Empowering through diversity

The CzekoSprawni exemplifies E.Wedel’s belief that diversity is a strength. By embracing inclusivity, the company has created a workplace culture where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. From recruitment to professional development, E.Wedel’s initiatives demonstrate that building an accessible and diverse organization is not just an aspiration—it’s a reality.

Together, we are shaping a future where employment barriers are removed and opportunities are accessible to everyone. CzekoSprawni is more than a program; it’s a movement towards a more inclusive and equitable world.