Nestlé USA and Nestlé Purina PetCare Earn Top Scores in 2018 Corporate Equality Index

ARLINGTON, Va., November 13, 2017 /3BL Media/ - Nestlé USA and Nestlé Purina PetCare received scores of 95% and 100% respectively on the 2018 Corporate Equality Index (CEI), a national benchmarking survey and report on corporate policies and practices relating to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ) workplace equality, administered by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation. Nestlé USA and Nestlé Purina PetCare’s scores reflect a commitment to LGBTQ workplace equality, with respect to tangible policies, benefits, and practices.

Stephen Leach, Manager of Diversity & Inclusion at Nestlé USA, stated: “We’re proud to be recognized with a high score on the Human Rights Campaign Corporate Equality Index again this year further demonstrating our commitment to advancing diversity and social inclusion for LGBTQ employees. It is our belief that all of our employees should be treated with equal respect because an inclusive workplace generates a more engaged, innovative and productive workforce.”

Annette Morris, Head of Diversity, Inclusion & Gender Balance at Nestlé Purina, stated, “It’s an honor to be recognized for our commitment to equality and to receive a 100 percent score for the third consecutive year. We believe that Purina has a fully integrated approach that values and respects all the dimensions of diversity. We strive to foster an environment of inclusion so all associates can contribute fully to the organization's success."

Deena Fidas, Workplace Equality Program Director at the Human Rights Campaign, said: "The top-rated employers in this year's Corporate Equality Index have demonstrated that LGBTQ equality is not just right, but smart business. By implementing LGBTQ-inclusive policies, practices and benefits, Nestlé USA and Nestlé Purina PetCare, are helping to lead the way towards full equality for all, as well as strengthening its ability to attract and retain a diverse, talented workforce."

The 2018 CEI rated 1,043 businesses in the report, which evaluates LGBTQ-related policies and practices including non-discrimination workplace protections, domestic partner benefits, transgender-inclusive health care benefits, competency programs and public engagement with the LGBTQ community. Nestlé USA and Nestle Purina PetCare’s efforts in satisfying all of the CEI’s criteria resulted in 95 and 100 percent rankings, respectively.

For more information on the 2018 Corporate Equality Index, or to download a free copy of the report, visit www.hrc.org/cei.

The Human Rights Campaign Foundation is the educational arm of America's largest civil rights organization working to achieve equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual transgender and queer people. HRC envisions a world where LGBTQ people are embraced as full members of society at home, at work and in every community.