Barilla has secured its position as the foremost company in the global food sector for reputation, according to the latest Global RepTrak® 100 conducted by RepTrak, an American firm renowned for its annual compilation of the world’s most reputable companies since 1999.
In this prestigious ranking, Barilla has clinched the 29th spot overall, marking a significant ascent of four positions from the previous year’s 33rd rank. Notably, among food companies, Barilla has asserted its leadership by advancing one place higher compared to the previous year.
Operating across more than 100 countries with its diverse range of brands and boasting 29 production sites globally (15 in Italy and 15 abroad), Barilla annually contributes to the production of over 2 million tons of food products. Furthermore, Barilla’s commitment to nutritional improvement is evidenced by nearly 500 nutritional reformulations since 2010, aimed at reducing fat, saturated fat, salt, and sugar content while enhancing fiber. In 2022 alone, Barilla introduced 40 innovative products that reflect its commitment to quality and consumer well-being, including items without added sugars, rich in fiber, whole grain options, and those incorporating legumes or nuts, as well as single-portion offerings.
The company’s reputational growth is further underscored by several remarkable milestones achieved in 2023. Notably, the introduction of a groundbreaking parental leave policy granting each parent 12 weeks of fully paid leave aimed at narrowing the gender gap in employment. Additionally, a €1 billion investment plan was unveiled, with half earmarked for projects within Italy, including a state-of-the-art research center in Parma.
Furthermore, €12.6 million was allocated to expand production capabilities at the Castiglione delle Stiviere plant. Barilla’s commitment to sustainability is also evident, with ongoing investments to improve products and packaging, innovate processes, reduce CO2 emissions by 32% since 2010, decrease water consumption by 24% since 2010, and promote sustainable supply chains. Moreover, the company has demonstrated its dedication to community support through donations totaling €3.2 million and the provision of over 3,200 tons of products.
Innovation remains a cornerstone of Barilla’s success. Through initiatives like Good Food Makers, a global accelerator for Ag-tech and Food-tech startups, Barilla continues to champion innovative ideas within the food industry.
