Staycold International based in the Free State, have recently adopted a structured approach to implementing their environmental, social, and governance framework (ESG). This to enable accurate and reliable sustainability reporting, to showcase their continuous drive to a better world. Most recently, they have replaced all internal-use plastic water bottles with reusable glass alternatives, to assist with waste management protocols.
This is part of their plan developed during the 2024 financial year, where Staycold undertook a materiality assessment in accordance with the Global Reporting Initiative’s (GRI) materiality guidance to determine key themes and topics for future reporting.
These materials matters have been incorporated into a long-term strategy that drives Staycold’s sustainability efforts. This followed on from when Staycold was acknowledged by Kudosone in 2023 as having met the criteria for ESG awareness. This sustainability “health” self-assessment was undertaken in line with the Sustainability Development Goals, the UN Global Compact, the IFC Performance Standards and the UN Guiding Principles for Human Rights.
Part of what they are doing under the Environment heading of ESG, that looks at Staycold’s emissions or their GHG (greenhouse gas) emissions, is recycling. Staycold branded glass bottles will replace all plastic bottles used at their factory and head office, by staff and guests. The system works on a deposit-return basis, encourages staff to return used bottles for cleaning and refilling in exchange for a discount. The initiative will be showcased at FRIGAIR in June as part of Staycold’s broader environmental commitment.
Other actions under Environment are a 250,000W solar power plant installed in 2022; using only Hydrocarbon gas in their coolers and they are transitioning this to their freezer line to assist with carbon emissions; factory equipment is carefully controlled through the use of timers and relays to ensure the consumption is restricted wherever possible; water extraction is measured and recycled where possible and the waste management system is being perfected, so glass and steel off-cuts are stockpiled for recycling purposes.
Regarding their Social theme, Staycold is committed to being part of a fair, just and equal society. Their social themes are material due to the importance of workforce quality and customer trust and they have obtained a clean audit from the Department of Employment and Labour. In addition they were also awarded a certificate of good standing with the RMA.
Their Governance procedures consider compliance with industry regulations to maintain stakeholder trust. Staycold adheres to international standards such as IEC safety regulations, ISO testing procedures for products and ISO 9001 QMS systems for the production plant which has been assessed and approved ISO 90001 2105 Quality Management System by QSA International.
Staycold prioritises transparency, ethical leadership, and robust governance structures, reflected in their new brand statement. They also always maintain a record of receiving unqualified audit reports every year; is a member firm of Universal Industries International, which adopts the King IV corporate governance principles and practices.
Staycold prioritises transparency, ethical leadership, and robust governance structures, reflected in their new brand statement.
Lena le Roux, Staycold’s long standing Managing Director, has been instrumental in leading, measuring and reporting on a responsible, sustainable, purpose driven company. Le Roux comments: “We have to always consider the global carbon price and our company’s wider impact on the world and role on people and the planet. We encourage end users also to play their role and choose units made by manufactures such as ourselves, who are in the race to net zero emissions.”
For more information on Staycold International, contact them on 056 819 8097 or visit their upgraded website, latest sustainability blog, LinkedIn page or YouTube channel
