Nestlé steps up global response to COVID-19 pandemic, joins forces with the International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies

Vevey, Switzerland,  Mar 26, 2020

Mark Schneider, CEO of Nestlé, said: “Now is the time to demonstrate the values of the Nestlé family. I am deeply impressed and humbled by what our team has accomplished in order to support individuals and communities affected by this crisis. The COVID-19 pandemic is a global problem and consequently we are offering help on the ground everywhere, drawing on our extensive presence and experience in 187 countries. In addition, we give our full support to those who are fighting tirelessly against the spread of the virus, every day. This is where our trusted and longstanding partnership with the IFRC comes in. We applaud the relentless efforts of the millions of Red Cross and Red Crescent volunteers and admire their determination to make a difference on the ground.”

At Nestlé, we care deeply for people and for the communities in which we operate, and we have an essential role to play during the COVID-19 crisis. Food and beverages help keep people healthy and enhance their quality of life. We care about our responsibility to provide good nutrition, especially for the most vulnerable in society – children, the elderly and those struggling with illness.

Partnership with the International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC)

Building on these humanitarian efforts, we announced today that we are joining forces with the IFRC in response to its emergency appeal. The IFRC is a strong and trusted global partner of Nestlé, with unmatched presence and expertise in providing first aid, emergency response and epidemic control. The Red Cross and Nestlé were both established over a century ago. We have common roots in Switzerland and are present in almost every country in the world. We share common values, including a determination to make a difference on the ground. As part of the emergency response, the IFRC is providing immediate help to strengthen health care systems, where the need is greatest.

Initially, we will work together in four ways to provide urgent help for emergency services and caregivers and strengthen healthcare systems.

• We will donate food, medical nutrition products and bottled water to bring relief to those most affected by the pandemic.
• We will deploy available logistics capacities from our out-of-home business to support the needs of the IFRC in various countries.
• We will donate CHF 10 million for immediate deployment in countries where it is most needed.
• We will match 1:1 any donations to the Red Cross and Red Crescent National Societies or Federation made by our employees. says release
• NOTE :These measures depend on local labor laws and regulations