Progressing on responsible sourcing

through supplier engagement in the unique shea supply chain

All about better sourcing of shea in the traditional supply chain

Collecting and selling shea kernels is an important income-generating activity for an estimated four million women in the shea belt in West Africa. In the traditional supply chain, AAK is sourcing shea through a network of suppliers.

Bucket filled with shea kernels hanging in a tree.

Traditional shea supply chain

In addition to our Kolo Nafaso supply chain, we source shea from suppliers and local partners in the traditional supply chain. We drive progress through supplier engagement and training.

The model

  • No plantations - agroforestry
  • Buying through suppliers and local partners
  • Extra income for individual women
Learn more about the Kolo Nafaso supply chain

More about responsible sourcing of shea in the Kolo Nafaso supply chain

In addition to the traditional supply chain, AAK sources shea from women in our direct sourcing program Kolo Nafaso. Learn about our engagement with more than 240,000 women and how we contribute to women's empowerment and poverty alleviation.

Sustainability reports

AAK’s sustainability reports demonstrate how sustainability is firmly anchored within our organization and how we progress on our commitments and ambitions – from plant to brand. The aim is to provide insight and understanding of our efforts, impacts, and contribution to sustainable development.

Questions about our sustainability work?

Discover more

Better sourcing

AAK is committed to sustainable sourcing, and we are well aware of the important role we play in the food value chain. Through Better Sourcing, we engage to transform and go the extra mile to implement continuous improvement programs.

Our approach to sustainability

In our approach, the AAK House of Sustainability is a sustainability framework that portrays how our sustainability work is organized and set towards our purpose, Making Better Happen™.

AAK's policies, codes and statements

AAK's codes and policies lay the groundwork for how we conduct our business sustainably and responsibly. On this page, you will find information ranging from the AAK Group Code of Conduct to our Palm Grievance process, and so much more.