Our customer SSI SCHAEFER is a leading global solution provider for all areas of intralogistics, including for internationally active online retailers. Since the 2021 financial year, we have been supporting the company in preparing its non-financial report in accordance with GRI and in conducting its materiality assessment in accordance with ESRS.
Many of SSI SCHAEFER's customers are increasingly valuing transparent and sustainable business practices, and some require a successful EcoVadis rating as a basis for a business relationship. Those who fail to impress in this area risk real competitive disadvantages.
Christian Peinhaupt, Project Manager Global Sustainability at SSI SCHAEFER, shares his experiences in an interview.
iron: "What requirements do customers place on SSI SCHAEFER with regard to an EcoVadis rating – and how does this affect your daily work in ESG management?"
Christian Peinhaupt: "Our customers increasingly expect transparency and reliable evidence regarding sustainability. The EcoVadis rating is another benchmark and is regularly used as a basis for supplier selection. Accordingly, we now manage ESG matters in an even more structured manner and continuously document our progress. The bronze awards we have received in recent years and, in particular, our steady improvement show that we are on the right track. We were able to make significant improvements once again this year, resulting in a silver rating from EcoVadis. In everyday life, this means above all improving data quality, standardising processes and anchoring sustainability as an integral part of all areas of the company. This is the only way to implement our ESG goals efficiently and sustainably – from procurement to product development."
iron: "What specific measures or processes have you implemented to not only maintain your EcoVadis rating, but to continuously improve it?"
Christian Peinhaupt: "We pursue a holistic approach with a group-wide sustainability and climate strategy, a human rights policy, a group-wide code of conduct and much more. All measures combine ecological, social and economic aspects. In 2023, we expanded the collection of relevant ESG metrics to 22 Group entities. For the 2024 Sustainability Report, the scope of consolidation was once again significantly expanded to include 57 companies within the Group. In addition, we have specifically optimised our processes in the areas of compliance, supply chain and occupational safety. Continuous improvement is a high priority for us. We analyse each EcoVadis rating in detail, derive concrete measures and implement targeted projects, for example to reduce CO₂ emissions or strengthen human rights in the supply chain."
iron: "In your experience, what are the biggest challenges with ESG ratings and what insights can you pass on to other medium-sized suppliers?"
Christian Peinhaupt: "One of the biggest challenges is harmonising ESG data across different locations, especially internationally. The reporting requirements for rating agencies also require structured processes and clear responsibilities. Our experience shows that it is important to start collecting data early on, to raise awareness throughout the company and to establish ESG as a strategic matter. In practice, targeted and measurable actions often facilitate the initiation of effective ESG management. It is crucial to actively shape sustainability, rather than simply reacting to ratings. This strengthens the trust of customers and partners. In addition, ESG management should always align with the corporate strategy and be prepared for the different requirements of the rating agencies."
iron: "We would like to thank SSI SCHAEFER for the trust they have placed in us and for the successful collaboration.": "We would like to thank SSI SCHAEFER for the trust they have placed in us and for the successful collaboration."
