Grupo Bimbo was recognized with the "Good Neighbor Award 2013" for being a leader in sustainability and social responsibility, while maintaining high standards in their products and having become the world's largest baking goods company in the world.
The United States – Mexico Chamber of Commerce (USMCOC), gives this distinction on an annual basis to individuals, organizations and companies whose work helps strengthen the economic, social and cultural relations between both countries.
Raúl Argüelles, Chief Human Relations Officer of Grupo Bimbo, received this award on behalf of the company, founded in Mexico more than six decades ago. The ceremony was presided by the Ambassador of Mexico to the United States, Eduardo Medina Mora, Mexico’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, José Antonio Meade Kuribreña, and U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, Thomas Vilsack.
Raul Argüelles mentioned that Grupo Bimbo’s growth in the U.S. market is related with the firm’s commitment to the quality and innovation of their products and brands. Over the past twenty years, the Group has strengthened its activities in the region, becoming a partner to the community and a "good neighbor" to the country.
Today, Bimbo Bakeries is the largest Mexican employer in the U.S., with more than 25,000 associates, sixty-nine plants and a portfolio of leading brands including Oroweat, Mrs. Bairds, Thomas', Sara Lee, Brownberry and Entenmann's, among others.
Raúl Argüelles said that the growth of the baking company has always been linked with a sustainable business model that ensures a balance between the firm’s economic, social and environmental goals. "Grupo Bimbo completed its largest operation in the U.S. with the acquisitions of Weston Foods and Sara Lee. The Group aims to consolidate the global growth strategy established in its 2015 vision, becoming one of the best baking companies in the world and a leader in the food industry, where its associates make the difference every day by nourishing, delighting and serving the world. "
Al Zapanta, president of the USMCOC, recognized the leadership of Daniel Servitje, Chairman and CEO of Grupo Bimbo, in turning the firm in the largest baking goods company in the world, while taking a leading role in promoting social responsibility and sustainability programs.
"The award we received today inspires us to continue building our efforts in all areas of our operations in order to remain a "good neighbor", committed to the future of the region as a whole", concluded Argüelles.
With this award, Grupo Bimbo consolidates its leadership in the global baking goods industry with presence in 19 countries of 3 continents, working under its mission to nourish, delight and serve the world with the quality and freshness that has characterized its products for over 65 years.