Woolworths’ leadership in corporate sustainability in the retail industry has been recognised by the Dow Jones Sustainability Indices (DJSI) for the third consecutive year.  Woolworths is one of only five South African companies, and the only retailer, to be included in the Sustainability World Index. Woolworths has also been included in the Dow Jones Sustainability Emerging Markets Index.

Woolworths’ sustainability programme, called its Good Business Journey, addresses the issue of sustainable growth within the context of the changing social and environmental needs of South Africa. The programme is strongly influenced by global best practice in sustainability, as well as by the Global Reporting Initiative guidelines, JSE Socially responsible investment index criteria and other legislative requirements. The programme has a uniquely South African perspective on both social and environmental issues.

Commenting on the achievement, Justin Smith, Head of Sustainability at Woolworths said: “This is a fantastic recognition of our Good Business Journey and our consistent performance and leadership in sustainability, both locally and internationally.  We are proud to be one of a handful of South African companies in these indices.”

Launched in 1999, The Dow Jones Sustainability Indices track the financial performance of leading sustainability-driven companies globally, enabling investors to integrate sustainability considerations into their portfolios and encouraging other companies to adopt sustainable best practices.  The DJSI World includes only the top 10% of companies per industry, making it the world’s most recognised global corporate sustainability index.

The index has approximately USD 8.8 billion in assets under management in a variety of financial products including mutual funds, separate accounts, structured products and exchange-traded funds. Approximately 60 products are based on the indices serving asset managers and banks in 20 countries.

Notes to Editors

Woolworths is one of five South African companies and the only retailer on the index. The other four companies are Exxaro, Goldfields, Nedbank and Sasol.

About the Good Business Journey

Woolworths Good Business Journey is our comprehensive plan to make a difference in six key areas, all of them challenges facing not only South Africa, but the world at large: Energy, Water, Waste, Sustainable Farming, Sustainable Fishing, Transformation and Social Development.

For more information see: www.woolworths.co.za