In order to strengthen its environmental, social and governance commitment, Bakersfield, California-based Bolthouse Farms has established an ESG Hub. The hub represents a sharpened focus on key issues and will facilitate integration of ESG factors across all parts of the business, positioning the company for growth.
“As we look to the future and redefine the role Bolthouse Farms plays in our communities, ESG-related factors are critical considerations,” said Zak Karlen, general manager, Bolthouse Farms. “By taking a more intentional approach to ESG, we will be better positioned to foster a sustainable relationship with our people and natural resources, while helping Bolthouse Farms grow into the most transparent and conscientious company we can be.”
Bolthouse Farms has appointed Shelby Layne as director of the ESG Hub, to lead the company’s efforts. Layne brings a background in marketing, finance and social impact organizations and is passionate about environmental and sustainability platforms. She has been with Bolthouse Farms for nearly three years in marketing and innovation roles. In this new role, Layne is leading the ESG Hub team as well as an emerging, company-wide, cross-functional ESG Task Force incorporating critical input from all business units.
“Bolthouse Farms is committed to transforming our business so that we give more than we take, and I could not be more pleased to lead the charge,” Layne said. “Our newly energized ESG focus isn’t just about advancing select causes, it’s about being very deliberate about doing good for the land, our people and our communities. It’s about ensuring that who we want to become as a company aligns with our actions.”
Bolthouse Farms ESG plans include close coordination and alignment with the ESG goals of its customers and retail partners. To direct and drive this focus, Joey Antonelli recently joined the ESG Hub team as manager, ESG customer management. He brings five years of experience in sales and customer interface to the role along with a passion for protecting and creating a better world for generations to come.
Antonelli started as a field sales representative in the Midwest, moving to Bentonville, Arkansas, to support the Walmart account. Most recently, he served as sales executive for the Walmart and Sam’s Club businesses. Antonelli was also recently selected to sit on the International Fresh Produce Association Sustainability Council, one of about 60 individuals who will help drive the industry to incorporate more sustainable practices into their businesses. This appointment will allow him to become ingrained in produce industry conversations surrounding ESG.
For more information, visit Bolthouse Farms.
