Givaudan’s Sustainable Business Model: Creating Long-Term Value
Givaudan, a global leader in flavors and fragrances, structures its business model around creating sustainable value by leveraging six key capital inputs. This holistic approach ensures both business success and positive outcomes for stakeholders.
Capital Inputs Driving Value Creation
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Financial Capital
Givaudan maintains a strong financial foundation with CHF 4,578 million in equity and investment-grade credit ratings (A– from S&P, Baa1 from Moody’s). -
Intellectual Capital
The company invests heavily in innovation, operating 62 creation and research centers and allocating CHF 565 million annually to research and development. This intellectual property, including proprietary technology, patents, and know-how, fuels product excellence and competitive advantage. -
Human Capital
With over 16,900 full-time employees globally, Givaudan emphasizes skills, motivation, diversity, and health and safety. Notably, 32% of senior leadership positions are held by women, showcasing commitment to inclusion. -
Natural Capital
Givaudan sources more than 11,000 different raw materials from 114 countries. The company adopts innovative sourcing models to ensure responsible use of natural resources. -
Manufactured (Operations) Capital
Supporting global customer growth, Givaudan operates 78 production sites worldwide. It invests 3-4% of sales annually in capital expenditures (Capex) to enhance infrastructure and supply chain capabilities. -
Social and Relationship Capital
While specific details were not fully provided, social and relationship capital typically encompasses stakeholder engagement, partnerships, community relationships, and corporate governance practices.
Purpose-Led Strategy for Sustainable Impact
Givaudan’s value creation process translates these input capitals into tangible outcomes, positively impacting the company and its stakeholders. This integrated model aligns with sustainability principles, supporting long-term business resilience and responsible growth.
Key Data Summary:
| Capital Type | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Financial Capital | CHF 4,578 million equity; Investment-grade credit ratings |
| Intellectual Capital | 62 research centers; CHF 565 million R&D investment |
| Human Capital | 16,900+ employees; 32% women leaders; strong health and safety focus |
| Natural Capital | 11,000+ raw materials from 114 countries; innovative sourcing |
| Manufactured Capital | 78 production sites; 3-4% of sales reinvested annually |
| Social Capital | Engagement and relationships fostering sustainable business |
Givaudan’s sustainable business model integrates financial strength, innovation, human talent, and responsible resource management to deliver lasting value and promote a greener, inclusive future.
For more on sustainable practices and value creation in the flavor and fragrance industry, follow our blog dedicated to organic and sustainable products.
Design Delight Studio curates high-impact, authoritative insights into sustainable and organic product trends, helping conscious consumers and innovative brands stay ahead in a fast-evolving green economy.


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