Slide 1
"Hi everyone! Welcome to my Pecha Kucha on corporate sustainability. Today, I’ll be discussing
Beiersdorf's governance and how they’re tackling the challenges of sustainability. We’ll see how
global frameworks like the SDGs connect with real business practices, with a special focus on their
Nivea brand."
Slide 2
It is one of Beiersdorf's key priorities to develop skin care products that are of the highest quality
standard and absolutely safe to use. Beiersdorf products are for cosmetic and medical skin care, as
well as for wound care, as such they make a solid contribution to the health and wellbeing of
consumers.
In the case of a quality defect, they have a global network of Quality Managers and an international
Complaints Management organization.
Slide 3
Beiersdorf is committed to promoting social equity through initiatives like fair trade partnerships and
gender-inclusive product development. They aim to make a positive impact in the communities
where they operate, especially in emerging markets. By investing in local economies, they not only
improve livelihoods but also strengthen their supply chains, ensuring long-term sustainability.
Slide 4
" Sustainable development, as defined by the Brundtland Report, is about meeting today’s needs
without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own. Beiersdorf embraces this
principle with various initiatives designed to reduce their carbon footprint and develop more
environmentally friendly products. These efforts not only help mitigate climate change but also set
the stage for a sustainable future."
Slide 5
"People, Planet, and Profit are a cornerstone of sustainability, also called The Triple Bottom Line.
Beiersdorf integrates these dimensions by improving labor standards, hereby impacting (People),
reducing plastic use, hereby impacting (Planet), and ensuring financial viability in emerging markets,
hereby impacting (Profit)."
Slide 6
Politics also play a role: "Stricter global regulations on product safety and environmental impact are
forcing change. Beiersdorf not only complies but leads, especially in markets like the EU with its
progressive ESG mandates."
For Example: A testing ban prohibits testing finished cosmetic products and cosmetic ingredients on
animals. While also outlawing the marketing of said products which use animal testing.
Slide 7
Pestle also outlines Technology and Social aspects: "Green chemistry and digital technologies, like AIdriven skin diagnostics, are reshaping the industry. Beiersdorf is leveraging these tools to create safer,
personalized, and eco-friendly products. Connecting people to the product"
Slide 8
Consumers and investors demand transparency about sustainability goals and progress. Some
companies are accused of “greenwashing” by making false or exaggerated claims about their
environmental efforts.
Beiersdorf publishes annual sustainability reports detailing progress on its goals, ensuring
accountability.
Slide 9
Dyllick - Muff describe 3 stages of Business sustainability:
Business Sustainability 1.0
-Selective reporting as a response to outside demands
Business Sustainability 2.0
-Full reporting on all material aspects of the triple bottom line
Business Sustainability 3.0
-Reflecting and reporting on the societal value created by the organization
Slide 10
"Beiersdorf currently operates at Business Sustainability 2.0, But is evolving towards Business
Sustainability 3.0 by addressing global challenges like carbon neutrality and water conservation,
Beiersdorf moves further towards passing the Triple Bottom Line."
Slide 11
The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) offer a global blueprint for progress, and
Beiersdorf has strategically aligned its business with these goals. In particular, SDG 12 (Responsible
Consumption and Production) and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) play a central role in
their sustainability strategy. These goals guide Beiersdorf’s efforts and ensure their operations
contribute positively to global development.
Slide 12
"Rob van Dun’s concept of shifting from compliance to opportunity highlights how Beiersdorf has
transformed sustainability into a core driver of brand value and business growth. By integrating
sustainability deeply into their brand, Beiersdorf is not only meeting regulatory requirements but also
seizing new opportunities for innovation, and market differentiation.
Slide 13
"Beiersdorf works to sustainably source key ingredients like shea butter and palm oil. Through
partnerships with certified suppliers. This approach helps protect biodiversity while also supporting
local communities, reinforcing Beiersdorf’s dedication to responsible sourcing and its wider
sustainability goals."
Slide 14
Packaging plays a key role in Beiersdorf’s sustainability initiatives. By 2025, Beiersdorf aims for 100%
recyclable, reusable, or compostable packaging. Currently, they are already reducing the use of virgin
plastic by incorporating more recycled materials into their products, thus creating a circular economy.
Slide 15
"Stakeholder theory highlights the value of strong relationships. By maintaining transparency and
actively engaging with customers, employees, and suppliers Beiersdorf builds trust and creates longterm value. These relationships are vital for ensuring the success of their sustainability initiatives and
achieving broader societal and environmental impact.*
Slide 16
The skincare industry faces rising consumer demand for transparency and sustainability. Beiersdorf’s
commitment on sustainable ingredients, eco-friendly packaging, and ethical sourcing sets them apart
in a highly competitive market. As consumers interest in ethical sourcing increases."
Slide 17
Using Porter’s Five Forces, we see that competition and consumer expectations drive innovation.
Beiersdorf’s ability to adapt through R&D and sustainable branding ensures their resilience."
Future plans include biodegradable formulations and further optimization of supply chains to
minimize environmental impact."
Slide 18
The skincare industry is rapidly evolving, with consumers prioritizing products that are sustainable,
effective, and transparent. Beiersdorf, as a global leader, is uniquely positioned with its iconic brands
like NIVEA and Eucerin. The company’s focus on innovation, commitment to sustainability, and
customer trust ensures its strong presence in this competitive landscape.
Slide 19
"Through partnerships with NGOs and governments, Beiersdorf amplifies their impact. Initiatives like
collective sustainability certifications and knowledge-sharing redefine industry standards. This raises
the bar for sustainability across the entire sector. Creating a broader, more lasting change."
Slide 20
"To wrap up, Beiersdorf’s approach to sustainability shows how businesses can drive meaningful
change. By staying committed to SDGs and pushing toward BST 3.0, they’re proving that sustainability
isn’t just good ethics—it’s good business. Thanks for listening!"