Lion was awarded the 2023 Corporate Social Responsibility Award at the eleventh annual Australian Drinks Awards hosted at the Sofitel Sydney Wentworth on Thursday evening.
Idris Jama, Lion’s Manufacturing Director, accepted the award on behalf of the company from Endeavour Group's Director of Corporate Affairs and Sustainability, Dan Holland.
In presenting the award, Holland said Endeavour Group was proud to sponsor the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Award as it’s an area that requires collaboration to achieve shared goals across all organisations.
He said: “Companies big and small are making great contributions in responsibility, community relations, diversity and the environment.”
“What is clear from the award, and from what we see in the market, is that across all parts of the industry, there is a top-down focus on making a difference, or as we call it at Endeavour, leaving a ‘positive imprint’.”
The Corporate Social Responsibility Award recognises an organisation's unique initiatives and strategies demonstrating a commitment to socially responsible principles.
In the case of Lion, it was its Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) - the second phase of the company’s industry-leading commitment to reconciling with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, that brought the award home to the brewing giant.
In its submission, Lion’s CEO, Sam Fischer, said: “There is a lot we can learn from the perspective of one of the world’s oldest living cultures if we are prepared to listen and engage with the First Australians.”
“I thank everyone at Lion who has been part of the RAP journey so far including our RAP Working Group and our Indigenous Advisory Council. I encourage all our people at Lion and business partners across Australia to embrace our commitment to building stronger relationships with Indigenous and Torres Strait Islander people and communities.”
Upon winning the award, Idris Jama said: “Our RAP journey so far has been a considered and reflective one for Lion as we have defined the contribution we can make in this space. With the support of our incredible Indigenous Advisory Council, we will continue to listen and learn as we move through our Innovate RAP. Hopefully, we have paved the way for other beverage companies to do the same.”
Lion's win came just ahead of family-owned Coopers Brewery, which received a Highly Commended acknowledgement on the evening for its ongoing philanthropic efforts as part of The Coopers Brewery Foundation.
Holland congratulated Coopers on its Highly Commended Award in his speech: "This organisation is recognised for its unique and widespread philanthropic effort over many years. Representatives from this family business remain directly involved in the foundation, as they do the brewery."
Foundation Chair, Mel Cooper, said Coopers was honoured to receive such acknowledgment.
“For us, this award recognises the generosity of the brewery’s staff, shareholders, corporate partners and other members of the public who support our Foundation,” she said.
“Through its actions, the Coopers Brewery Foundation has donated more than $7 million to Australian charities since its inception in 2006.”
“As a sixth generation family-owned business, Coopers understands the importance of supporting families and individuals in their time of need. The Foundation is having a real impact on the lives of many Australians and we are as determined as ever to continue making a difference,” Cooper added.
Drinks Association CEO Georgia Lennon said: "The Corporate Social Responsibility Award category saw exceptional submissions this year, with two standouts capturing the judges' attention.”
“The Drinks Association would like to acknowledge Coopers for its impactful ongoing philanthropic endeavours, supporting charitable organisations in medical research, healthcare, youth education, aged care, and community well-being.”
“And congratulations to Lion for your Reconciliation Action Plan, a significant step towards contributing positively to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and addressing societal challenges."
Lion also received four Brand Awards on the night for Craft and Contemporary Beer, Non-Alcoholic Spirits and Seltzer.
Fan Favourite Brand Awards - Lion
- Beer - Craft: James Squire 150 Lashes
Gaining in Popularity Brand Awards - Lion
- Beer - Contemporary: Stone & Wood Green Coast Crisp
- Spirits - Non-Alcoholic: Four Pillars Bloody Shiraz Bandwagon
- RTD - Seltzer: White Claw
Vince Sorrenti was MC at the eleventh annual Australian Drinks Awards, where 48 awards were distributed to recognise achievement and excellence in the drinks industry, including three Contribution to Industry Awards: Inclusive and Diverse Workplace, Corporate Social Responsibility and Most Improved Gender Equity.
The Drinks Association congratulates its Category One Member Lion on winning the 2023 Corporate Social Responsibility Award.
The Drinks Association would like to extend its thanks to its generous sponsors for this year’s event.
All the winners from the 2023 Australian Drinks Awards are available here:
