The report presents four key directions through which the company aims to contribute to a more sustainable future. In the Business<\/strong> field, Sphera directed 80% of the purchase budget of the brands in Romania to domestic suppliers, thus contributing to the local economy. Within the Environment<\/strong> pillar, the Group recorded reductions in Greenhouse Gas emissions for both Domain 1 (10%) and Domain 2 (5%) compared to the year 2022. Regarding Products<\/strong>, all suppliers of chicken have been audited for animal welfare standards, ensuring quality and ethics in the supply chain. Last, but not least, the People<\/strong> and Community<\/strong> pillar highlights Sphera\u2019s commitment to diversity and inclusion, with nearly 65% of management positions held by women and over 30 different nationalities among employees.<\/p>\n “The year 2023 proved that, at Sphera, operational excellence and corporate responsibility are mutually reinforcing. We have taken important steps towards redefining the standards in our industry, with achievements that are not mere numbers in a report, but are the pillars of our sustainable future. We see today\u2019s ESG challenges as opportunities for innovation and leadership in the industry, and, through this approach, we transform every action into a source of sustainable value for all our stakeholders, consolidating our position as pioneers of the HoReCa industry\u201d, states C\u0103lin Ionescu, CEO, Sphera Franchise Group<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n The Group\u2019s objective to implement energy-efficient lighting (LED) was achieved in 2023, with all restaurants currently equipped with this system; We collaborate in the medium and long term with class A & B (QSA) and risk 1 (FSA \u2013 Food Safety Audit) suppliers who hold GFSI (Global Food Safety Initiative) certifications; Sphera offers an example of inclusion and equity in the food service industry, with over 30 nationalities different from the Romanian one, a diversity of ages, between 16 and 73 years old, and women occuping almost 65% of management positions; Approximately 5 tons of food were donated within the Harvest program, thus contributing to reducing food waste and supporting vulnerable people;Energy performance and environmental protection<\/strong><\/h3>\n
\n\tElectricity consumption at the Group level was 3.63% lower in 2023 compared to 2022;<\/p>\nSuppliers and food safety<\/h3>\n
\n\tAll chicken suppliers have been assessed to ensure compliance with animal welfare requirements set by the Farm Animal Welfare Council (FAWC). Thus, providers must adhere to practices that promote the health and comfort of animals, ensuring adequate nutrition, a safe environment and appropriate medical care;<\/p>\nEmployees, diversity and inclusion<\/h3>\n
\n\tIn 2023, the internal promotion rate for restaurant management roles was 80%;
\n\tOverall, more than 260,000 hours of training were carried out for the Group\u2019s employees;<\/p>\nInvolvement in the community<\/h3>\n
\n\tDonations of over 1 million lei made through Tomorrow\u2019s Menu<\/a>, Sphera\u2019s CSR platform for disadvantaged communities;\u00a0
\n\tMore than 130 internships were carried out within Sphera, facilitating young people\u2019s access to the labour market and the initiation of a career through partnerships with high schools and universities.<\/p>\n