MARKHAM, ONTARIO — Canadian pet food and supplies retailer Pet Valu Holdings Ltd. recently released its Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) report for its fiscal year ended Dec. 30, 2023. The company’s second annual ESG report gives an update on how it manages and measures key ESG factors. 

“Building on a strong foundation of long-standing responsible and sustainable business practices, we took incremental steps in 2023 to enhance our oversight and management of key ESG factors,” said Richard Maltsbarger, chief executive officer of Pet Valu. “The strength of our key success metrics is a clear indicator that our strategies continue to deliver better outcomes and value to stakeholders while pursing our mission to be Canada’s preferred pet retailer.”

In order to improve emissions intensity, the company consolidated parts of its distribution network into larger, “modern” facilities and advanced low emissions initiatives. Additionally, it required acceptable third-party social audits from all new proprietary brand manufacturers in Asia and South America, strengthening its product safety and quality practices, according to Pet Valu. 

Pet Valu also released its first “Modern Slavery Report,” which summarizes policies, activities and processes used to manage the potential risk of forced or child labor in its supply chain.

In an effort to enhance its Animal Care Expert (ACE) working environment, Pet Valu shared that it invested over $1 million in new, upgraded safety technology, launched a program designed for high-potential talent, and provided visibility into ACE ethnic diversity. Additionally, the company supported the establishment of a self-elected franchisee council for its Les Franchises Chico Inc. and incorporated “Safe & Ready assessments.”

“I am proud of the actions of our ACEs and franchisees, who embody our Four Paws service model to deliver holistic value to devoted pet lovers and the communities we serve,” Maltsbarger added. “Together, with industry best practices and stakeholder feedback, we plan to make any further enhancements to our strategies and disclosures, while preparing for forthcoming disclosure obligations.”

Read Pet Valu’s full  2023 ESG report.

Read more about sustainability efforts across the pet food and treat industry.