Smurfit Kappa has been awarded the prestigious “Order of San Carlos” medal from the Colombian Government for 75 years of dedication to the country.

Smurfit Kappa Colombia has continuously invested in job creation, innovation and sustainability. The award was also recognition for Smurfit Kappa Colombia's leadership in the development of renewable, recyclable and biodegradable packaging, as well as the work it has done to support and develop recycling infrastructure.

The packaging leader also has a strong track record in corporate social responsibility which it runs through the Smurfit Kappa Colombia Foundation which was established in the 1960s and benefits more than 10,000 people in surrounding communities. Projects have a focus on grass-roots development, sustainable living and active citizenship.

Smurfit Kappa Group CEO Tony Smurfit, who was there to accept the award, said:

“It is an extraordinary privilege for me to be here to mark our 75th year in business in this amazing country.

I am so proud of what we as a company have accomplished in Colombia and I, my colleagues, and all previous generations of workers are all honoured that Colombia is bestowing the Order of San Carlos award on us.”

Álvaro José Henao Ramos, CEO of Smurfit Kappa Colombia, added:

“We are very proud of receiving this award from the Government, because we see it as recognition of 75 years of work with our customers, employees, suppliers and communities.

We will continue to develop innovative and sustainable packaging solutions that contribute to the growth of our customers' businesses and we will do this by continuing to rely on the talent, expertise and passion that makes our people truly unique.”

Carlos Holmes Trujillo, Colombia’s Foreign Affairs Minister, said: “The history of Smurfit Kappa Colombia is remarkable and goes beyond its business leadership. It has generated inclusion and shared value through its social responsibility programmes.”