Culture shapes how a company operates, collaborates, and grows. SARIA Food & Pharma has introduced a set of cultural principles designed to guide how they work, lead, and make decisions. Developed with input from across the division, these principles reflect what matters most while aligning with the values of the Rethmann family and the broader SARIA Group.

Why culture principles matter

SARIA Food & Pharma’s cultural principles provide a clear framework for decision-making, collaboration, and innovation. By establishing shared principles, they unite their diverse Business Units under common ways of working while respecting their unique identities.

WE ACT LIKE OWNERS

We think and behave like intrapreneurs.

• We take ownership, we’re accountable, we’re clear on our focus and responsibility.
• We’re proud of our industry knowledge, our products and the impact they make for customers and society.
• This motivates and energizes us in the role we play in driving our business forward.

WE CARE BECAUSE IT COUNTS

We take responsibility for our products, our people, our planet and our profit.

• We care, we protect, we develop our people and our products.
• We work safely, supportively, sustainably – always.
  Because what we do today shapes our business, and our planet, for the future.

WE PUSH FOR PROGRESS

We’re engaged, we’re empowered, we embrace evolution – and transformation.

• We look ahead, anticipate challenges and make bold decisions to keep things moving – even when things get tough.
• We’re proactive, we’re positive.
• We’re committed to delivering the best – to innovating, adapting and continuously improving.

WE ARE EVEN BETTER TOGETHER

Our culture is as connected as our value chain.

• With common goals and a shared purpose, we work together, supporting, encouraging and building trust.
• We prioritize integrity, transparency and respect, by seeking clarity, cooperation and long-term relationships – because we achieve more together.

Living the principles every day

By defining and living these principles, SARIA Food & Pharma is creating a culture that everyone can be proud of, a culture that inspires people to take ownership, care for what matters, push for progress, and achieve more together.

A milestone achievement, this certification aligns with growing global demand for Halal casings and positions Van Hessen to serve this important market segment through its China factory in Shanghai, with confidence and credibility.

Gateway for future growth

As the first Halal-certified facility within the Van Hessen Group, this achievement paves the way for more certifications across the Business Unit. It enables expansion into emerging markets, like South Africa, and parts of Europe, while reinforcing customer trust and reputation for reliable quality.

“This milestone marks an important step in Van Hessen’s global development. By achieving Halal certification, we’re able to serve a broader customer base while staying true to our promise of safe, authentic, and consistent products,” Paul van Lankveld, COO, ROW.

Strategic impact and next steps

Halal certification strengthens Van Hessen’s market position and opens new opportunities where previously these were limited. The next step is achieving Halal certification for Nieuwerkerk aan den Ijssel (Netherlands), enabling flexible repacking and supply from multiple sites, including Rotterdam.

Long-term partnership, global impact

The Shanghai plant is managed by Shanghai Star, a long-standing partner of Van Hessen that has played a significant role in the global supply chain for over 30 years. As one of the world’s largest selection facilities for natural casings, Shanghai Star is now recognized as the certified market leader in halal-compliant production.

After a rigorous two year process, Devro has achieved a major milestone and has secured Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) validation. They pursued this recognition to show their commitment to ambitious, science-based climate action and to hold themselves accountable – to their people, stakeholders, customers and communities. Achieving SBTi validation means Devro’s environmental targets are not only credible but also bold enough to make a real difference in the fight against climate change.

Devro’s carbon footprint

Reaching this point required a deep dive into Devro’s carbon footprint, including the impact of the entire supply chain. Colleagues from Engineering, Regulatory, Procurement, Logistics, Finance, R&D and HR provided invaluable support along the way. But this is not the finish line, validation confirms that their goals will make a real difference to Devro’s climate impact, but future success will depend on everyone pulling in the same direction, making everyday choices that bring a more sustainable future closer.

Why SBTi validation matters

Being validated by the SBTi is becoming increasingly important.

• Credibility and trust – Having targets validated by SBTi gives external approval that our climate commitments align with the Paris Agreement and are not just “greenwashing.”
• Investor and lender expectations – More investors, banks and insurers are pushing for science-based targets before providing funding or favourable terms.
• Customer and supply chain pressure – Our customers are requiring evidence of strong climate action, SBTi-validation provides proof of our commitment.
• Reputation and brand value – Public commitments backed by SBTi enhance brand trust with customers, employees and regulators.
• Regulatory alignment – While not mandatory, SBTi validation helps prepare for growing climate disclosure regulations.

The trend

Validation is moving from “nice to have” to “expected”  and SBTi is rapidly becoming the standard benchmark for credible climate action. SBTi validation is one of the strongest signals of climate leadership and is increasingly seen as essential for competitiveness.

Bioiberica hosted a memorable Family Day on Saturday, September 20th, celebrating 50 years of history, growth, and innovation. The event marked a significant milestone, honoring half a century of progress by opening the company’s doors to those who drive its success: employees and their families.

A Memorable Celebration

The Family Day event brought together hundreds of employees and their loved ones at Bioiberica’s Palafolls facility for a day filled with joy, entertainment, and connection. Guests had the opportunity to explore the factory—the core of the company’s operations—and learn more about the daily work that shapes Bioiberica’s future. The atmosphere was festive and welcoming, with activities designed for all ages. Children’s games, interactive stations, food trucks offering a diverse range of culinary options, and live performances contributed to a lively and engaging experience.

Honoring the Bioiberica Community

Family Day served not only as a celebration of Bioiberica’s 50th anniversary but also as a tribute to the broader community that supports the organization. It was a recognition of the vital role employees and their families play in the company’s journey – acknowledging both the contributions made within the workplace and the support provided from home. The event created an opportunity for colleagues, friends, and family members to connect, reflect, and make lasting memories in the environment where daily efforts contribute to shared goals.

Looking Ahead

Bioiberica extends its gratitude to everyone who participated and contributed to making the day special. The event highlighted the values of collaboration, appreciation, and unity that define the organization. Plans for future editions are already in consideration, aiming to continue fostering this strong sense of community.

At Bioiberica, they are celebrating the 50th anniversary with a significant milestone: the launch of a renewed brand identity that reflects the commitment to the future and the fundamental purpose.

Renewed brand identity

This strategic rebranding, which culminates half a century of dedication to advancing the health and well-being of people, animals and plants, is presented with the new corporate purpose ‘For a healthier and safer world’ and a renewed tagline, ‘We are all one’, which accompanies the new logo.

Key aspects of the rebranding

Bioiberica is undergoing a rebranding process, which is the result of an in-depth analysis of the market and other strategic aspects. New fonts have been created that are modern, accessible, and easy to read on any format or device, as well as a distinctive symbol for each business area.

New corporate website

To complement this transformation, Bioiberica has launched a new corporate website designed to reflect this new identity and visual system. The new digital platform offers a unified experience with a clearer information architecture tailored to customers in each of its three main business areas: people, animals and plants. Luis Solera, CEO of Bioiberica, says: “The launch of our new website is an example of our vision: we want to continue innovating and show the world the excellence of our products in human, animal and plant health. This project is a tribute to our past and a reflection of our commitment to innovation and leadership in the sector.“ Full article on the website.