DES MOINES, Iowa — Kum & Go parent company Krause Group has published its inaugural Corporate Social Responsibility Report.
With approximately 400 c-stores in 11 states, Kum & Go is No. 18 on CSP’s 2019 Top 202 ranking of c-stores by number of retail outlets.
Krause Group’s social responsibility philosophy rests on four pillars: purpose, people, planet and philanthropy, the company said. It uses the pillars as filters for decision-making and improvement.
The report spotlights those pillars, from sustainable construction in its new Des Moines headquarters to associate safety in its logistics company, and from food rescue and enhanced benefits in convenience retail to sustainable agricultural practices across its vineyards and farmland in the United States and Italy.
“As a family and a company, we have long held the values of putting our customers, associates and communities first. Our approach to corporate social responsibility really boils down to one overarching question: Are we doing the right thing?” said Kyle Krause, chairman and CEO of Krause Group. “Every day, we work to ensure a safe, healthy and inclusive environment for our associates; to minimize our impact on the environment; and, ultimately, to build a company that we can be proud of for generations to come.”
Along with convenience-store chain Kum & Go, the Krause Group family of companies includes Solar Transport, Krause Group Real Estate, Vietti and Enrico Serafino wineries in Italy, Dalla Terra Ranch, Teamwork Ranch and the Des Moines Menace soccer club.
“This report is a reflection of the impact we’ve had to date, but its true aim is to drive us forward,” Krause said. “It sets the path forward for where we want to be in the months, years and decades to come.”
Krause explained the company’s philosophy, represented by the four P’s …
“We focus on our ‘why’ in everything we do: to inspire and energize our associates and to engage our customers,” Krause said. “This is the string that pulls a company to a common goal. It is our filter for decision-making and investments. While making money is essential for the vitality and sustainability of our business, it is not the most important reason our company exists. Our businesses should focus on their purpose beyond profit.”
“We create a culture where our associates have a sustainable quality of life and all stakeholders feel welcomed and valued," Krause said. "This pillar incorporates diversity and inclusion and associate well-being. At Krause Group, diversity and inclusion is not only about race, gender, ethnicity, language, religion and sexual orientation, but also about recruiting and retaining associates with differing mindsets, backgrounds, education levels and opinions that challenge, engage and teach others—and help us become a better company. Just as we have been welcomed by associates and customers from all over the world, we welcome people everywhere.”
“We implement sustainable practices to reduce our impact on the environment and provide for future generations," Krause said. "We believe that it is our responsibility to reduce the impact our businesses have on the environment in order to provide for future generations. Krause Group’s largest focus will be on eliminating [food] waste [and] water and energy usage from each business’ operations.”
“We give back and enrich the communities we serve,” Krause said. “The Krause family has always given back to the communities that have helped them be successful. As a company, Krause Group leads in an unwavering commitment to continue this. The most visible example is the commitment to give 10% of our profits back to our communities. The company also supports and encourages associates to give back their time by volunteering with nonprofits and serving in leadership positions on boards."
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