In accordance with the principle of double materiality, Geberit classifies topics as material if they are significant for the business success of Geberit or if the business activities of Geberit have significant economic, environmental or social effects. A differentiated assessment according to these two dimensions is not shown. The plan for 2024 is to adapt the materiality analysis to correspond to the new guidelines of the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) of the European Union.
The topics that Geberit identified as material in the economic, environmental and social dimensions are shown in the graphic below.
Value Creation
Materiality analysis
Sustainability strategy
Mission
We continuously improve the quality of people’s lives with innovative sanitary products.
Geberit concentrates on sanitary and piping systems for transporting water in buildings, as well as bathroom ceramics and furniture. In these areas, Geberit has comprehensive know-how and supplies high-quality, integrated and water-saving sanitary technology as well as attractive design.
Commitment to innovation and sustainability
Continuously optimising and extending the product range is crucial for future success. Innovative strength is founded on research in areas such as hydraulics, statics, fire protection, hygiene and acoustics, as well as process and materials technology. The insights gained are systematically applied in the development of products and systems for the benefit of customers. Here, the aspects of design are constantly growing in importance.
Selective geographic expansion
An important factor in long-term success is stronger growth in the markets in which Geberit products or technology are still under-represented. Outside Europe, Geberit concentrates on the most promising markets. These include North America, China, Southeast Asia, Australia, the Gulf Region, South Africa and India. With the exception of North America and Australia, the company mainly engages in project business in these markets. The company always adheres strictly to the existing high standards in terms of quality and profitability.
Continuous optimisation of business processes
Efficient processes will help to establish a leading and competitive cost structure on a long-term basis. Process optimisation will be partly achieved through Group-wide projects and partly through employees identifying improvement potential in their day-to-day work, thus making a major contribution toward positive development.
The following topics will not be processed further or shown in more detail by Geberit:
Taxes: As part of its reporting, Geberit provides information on income taxes, see Note 25 in the consolidated financial statements.
Biodiversity: Geberit production sites do not endanger biodiversity in protected areas. Biodiversity plays a role when procuring mineral raw materials for ceramic production. This subject was addressed and examined as part of supplier audits. During these audits, it was found that the suppliers in this sector actively address the topic of biodiversity and take appropriate measures within the context of their licence to operate.
Politics: No support is given to political parties or politicians. Participation in the political process is confined to membership in certain associations and is therefore limited.