Hershey in Top 50 of America's '100 Best Corporate Citizens'

HERSHEY, Pa.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

The Hershey Company HSY announced today that it has been recognized as one of Corporate Responsibility Magazine's 100 Best Corporate Citizens. The company was ranked No. 45. This is the first time the company has been in the top 50 and underscores the company's commitment to using its business expertise for good around the world.

The magazine annually ranks the nation's top 100 companies for demonstrated CSR best practices and a commitment to publicly reporting their socially responsible initiatives. Last year, Hershey's Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, J.P. Bilbrey was honored by Corporate Responsibility Magazine as one of their 2014 Responsible CEOs of the Year.

"Since our founding, one of our core beliefs has been that true success only comes in helping others achieve a brighter future. Our employees work hard to bring goodness to the world through our beloved brands and positive contributions to creating a sustainable world," said J.P. Bilbrey, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, The Hershey Company. "We are honored that this core part of who we are is being recognized."

The 100 Best Corporate Citizens list is based on publicly available information in seven categories: environment, climate change, human rights, philanthropy, employee relations, financial performance and governance. The list was recognized by PR Week as one of America's three most-important business rankings.

The full list of the 2015 100 Best Corporate Citizens can be found at http://www.thecro.com/. In the next few weeks, Hershey will be releasing its latest CSR report outlining the company's 2014 sustainability accomplishments.

About The Hershey Company

The Hershey Company HSY, headquartered in Hershey, Pa., is a global confectionery leader known for bringing goodness to the world through its chocolate, sweets, mints and other great-tasting snacks. Hershey has more than 22,000 employees around the world who work every day to deliver delicious, quality products. The company, which has more than 80 brands around the world that drive over $7.4 billion in annual revenues, includes such iconic brand names as Hershey's, Reese's, Hershey's Kisses, Jolly Rancher, Ice Breakers and Brookside. Hershey is focused on growing its presence in key international markets while continuing to build its competitive advantage in North America. Additionally, Hershey is expanding its portfolio into categories beyond confectionery, finding new ways to bring goodness to people everywhere.

At Hershey, goodness has always been about more than delicious products. For 120 years, Hershey has been committed to good business by operating fairly, ethically and sustainably to make a positive impact on society. This means contributing to a better life for its employees, consumers, communities, and, ultimately, creating a bright future for children in need. This commitment is exemplified by Milton Hershey School, established in 1909 by the company's founder and administered by Hershey Trust Company. The children who attend the school receive education, housing, and medical care — thriving as direct beneficiaries of The Hershey Company's success.