Kobo Achieves EcoVadis Gold: From 58 to 83 Points in 20 Weeks

Summary

Kobo, a leading product distributor and manufacturer serving the cosmetics industry with locations in United States, France, Brazil, partnered with Global Partner Solutions (GPSI) to elevate their sustainability credentials. Within just 20 weeks, through open communication, collaborative problem-solving, and a shared commitment to positive change, Kobo’s team moved from an EcoVadis score of 58 (“Committed”) to an impressive 83 (“Gold” Medal), joining the top 5% of companies worldwide.

Client Profile

• Company: Kobo
• Industry: Cosmetics Ingredients Distribution & Manufacturing
• Locations: United States, France, Brazil
• Employees: ~300
• Key Clients: cosmetic brands around the world

Challenge

Kobo’s strong culture of sustainability was clear within its walls, but those efforts weren’t reflected in its previous EcoVadis score of 58. Behind the scenes, passionate team members led numerous initiatives, yet faced challenges such as:

• Misaligned Documentation: Initiatives, commitments and KPIs were already in place, but not aligned with recognized international standards such as the Global Reporting Initiative (“GRI”), making it hard to showcase progress.
• Departmental Siloes: Dedicated individuals worked on impactful projects, yet a shared framework was missing between sites and departments.
• A Team Ready to Grow: The budding internal sustainability team sought mentorship and partnership to unlock their full potential.
• Customer Expectations: Pressure from major clients meant the stakes, and the need for teamwork, were high.

GPSI Solution

GPSI worked hand-in-hand with Kobo, delivering our Advanced Sustainability package. Our solution combined strategic consulting, cross-functional collaboration, and hands-on implementation:

• Policy Alignment: Refined, restructured and set realistic objectives to all existing policies to meet EcoVadis requirements.
• KPI Standardization: Established consistent KPIs linked to global benchmarks and aligned to the GRI Standard.
• Collaborative Integration: Initiated bi-weekly cross-departmental meetings to connect teams and build shared understanding.
• Supply Chain Risk Management:  Performed a supplier risk assessment of suppliers representing 80% of purchasing volume. Restructured the supplier code of conduct and training on modern slavery for the purchasing team.
• Capacity Building: Provided ongoing mentorship and resources to Kobo’s sustainability team.
• CSR Reporting: Produced Kobo’s first CSR report, establishing a template for future disclosures.
• Discovery and Optimization: Uncovered previously unreported sustainability initiatives, strengthening Kobo’s EcoVadis submission.
• Mentorship & Empowerment: GPSI didn’t just provide answers, we coached Kobo’s sustainability team, nurturing skills and confidence at every step.
• Supply Chain Partnership: GPSI guided Kobo to engage suppliers as partners in progress, deepening trust and mutual success.

Results: Achieving More, Together

• EcoVadis Gold Achieved: Together, teams scored from 58 to 83 points, exceeding their own Silver target and capturing Gold status in less than six months.
• Top 5% Globally: A sense of pride rippled through the organization with industry-leading recognition.
• On-Time Success: Clear roles, regular check-ins, and trust allowed for seamless delivery within timeframe and budget.
• Stronger Connections: Departmental siloes gave way to a culture of support, knowledge-sharing, and pride.
• Resilient Supply Chain: Kobo staff and suppliers alike embraced new standards, elevating ethical sourcing and compliance.
• Lasting Growth: Kobo’s team now confidently steers future sustainability assessments, fostering independence and ongoing learning.
• Employee Empowerment: Employees who once wondered why their sustainability efforts weren’t reflected in their scores now gained crucial clarity

Key Takeaways

• Strategic Alignment Drives Recognition: Translating substantive efforts into standards-based language is critical for external validation.
• Cross-functional Collaboration: Connecting siloed teams accelerates knowledge sharing and process improvement.
• Supply Chain Transparency: Active supplier engagement and risk assessments are essential for responsible operations.

Conclusion

Kobo’s rapid advancement from a “Committed” EcoVadis rating to Gold status is a testament to the impact of focused strategy and expert guidance. It proves that real sustainability advances are powered by people, within your business and through the partners you choose. By partnering with GPSI, Kobo built a scalable sustainability framework and secured industry-leading recognition, demonstrating that investing in structured ESG practices not only meets customer expectations but also drives long-term value.

Ready to elevate your sustainability performance? Contact Global Partner Solutions to explore how our ESG & Sustainability services can support your business or visit our Insights for more case studies and best practices.