SGK, Inc, established in 1953 as Schawk Graphics Kedzie in Chicago, is a global leader in packaging and brand experience. Acquired by Matthews International in 2014, SGK delivers world-class, end-to-end packaging solutions and connected brand experiences. With a presence in the Asia Pacific region for over 30 years, SGK was the first wholly owned foreign agency in China in 1996. Their parent company was named one of America’s Most Responsible Companies of 2002, reinforcing SGK’s commitment to responsibility and sustainability.
Vision and Clientele
SGK’s vision is to become the world’s most trusted brand to simplify marketing operations, amplify brands, and deliver meaningful value. SGK partners with numerous well-known brands globally, including Coca-Cola, Mondelez, Johnson & Johnson, Procter & Gamble, and Nike in the Asia Pacific region, among others.
Commitment to Sustainability
SGK’s approach to sustainability is three-fold: balancing sustainable packaging costs and quality, developing innovative messaging to communicate sustainability efforts to consumers, and aligning internally to create shared values around sustainability. The company uses its influence to drive better, more sustainable solutions for its clients, leveraging its extensive experience with large packaged goods companies and renowned brands.
Internal and External Sustainability Approach
SGK has adopted a comprehensive, inside-out approach to maximize its sustainability impact. Internally, the company has set rigorous standards, goals, and metrics while empowering governance and sustainability champions at regional and local levels. Externally, SGK helps its clients on their sustainability journeys, offering support and guidance for creating environmentally and socially responsible practices.
Priority Areas and Reporting
SGK has identified key areas of impact for sustainability, including Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions, Energy Management, Water Management, and Solid Waste & Hazardous Waste Management, in alignment with the Sustainability Accounting Standard Board (SASB) and the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI). The company has been reporting on sustainability metrics with SASB & GRI since 2019 and plans to continue this practice. In 2022, SGK expanded its focus to include auditing suppliers to ensure they meet sustainability standards.
Diversity and Inclusion Efforts
SGK is committed to advancing diversity and inclusion within the organization. The company has a Global D&I Council that represents its diverse workforce, helping shape plans and programs to promote racial equity and greater inclusion. The Council’s initiatives are designed to raise awareness and ensure that potential risks and opportunities are addressed effectively.
Governance and Oversight
SGK maintains a Global Steering Committee dedicated to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) matters, which reports directly to the Board of Directors. This Committee oversees policies and operational controls regarding environmental, health, safety, and social risks. In the APAC/MEA region, SGK has a Sustainability Council that meets monthly, reporting directly to the Global ESG Steering Committee.
APAC Sustainability Council and Individual Accountability
The APAC Sustainability Council is accountable for identifying and delivering sustainability initiatives. Each council member is tasked with identifying one sustainability-focused project or initiative annually and presenting one strategic alliance opportunity. Sustainability objectives are also integrated into individual Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), and employees are rewarded for achieving these objectives with performance-based bonuses, recognition, and other incentives.
SGK’s Ecosystem of Care
SGK’s commitment to sustainability goes beyond meeting business demands—it is about creating an ecosystem of care, accountability, and safeguarding natural resources. By innovating in sustainable packaging, communicating these efforts effectively to consumers, and aligning internal practices with shared sustainability values, SGK is helping create a more sustainable future for both its clients and the environment.
Shanggari Balakrishnan, Chief Executive Officer of MORS Group, commended SGK for its forward-thinking approach, stating that SGK’s innovative balance between sustainable packaging cost and quality, along with its strong commitment to environmental responsibility, has paved the way for better, more sustainable solutions in the packaging industry.
