Assortment and products, human resources, environment-construction, society and logistics are the main CSR directions for Lidl. In terms of community, the firm focuses its efforts on supporting education, as well as a healthy lifestyle – regarding both physical activity and diet. It has also developed and funded many projects that offer assistance to disadvantaged children and those in poor health.
Anda Sebesi
As for the environment, Lidl Romania’s regional center, now being built in Lugoj, is based on the most ecological technologies and will help the company to reduce energy consumption, emissions, and its CO2 footprint. Additionally, the new Lidl headquarters, a construction that will also be based on sustainable and innovative technologies featuring natural refrigerant and geothermal wells, and makes use of geothermal energy for heating. Lidl is also implementing various measures and programs to care for its employees. Along with life insurance, gradually increasing annual leave, gym memberships, projects to help employees achieve work-life balance, there is also a Future Store Manager program, which is aimed at developing the skills of its employees on a number of levels: professional, business, personal, social and leadership. In terms of logistics, the company optimizes its truck routes to minimise the impact of freight transport on the environment.
In 2014, Lidl signed a long-term partnership with the SMURD Foundation to support its mission to improve the integrated medical system. The “Donate for those who Save!” campaign at cash registers (EUR 100,000 was raised, plus EUR 50,000 from Lidl) and “Menține vie speranța” (Keep the Hope Alive – over EUR 100,000 raised plus EUR 25,000 from Lidl), which was dedicated to supporting the mission of Hospice Casa Speranței, are some of the projects. In addition, Lidl contributes to the preservation of local traditions, developing the “Sarbatori la Sat” (Village Festivals) campaign aimed at providing the means for local Christmas traditions to be passed on to new generations.