Villa Maria wins Sustainable Business of the Year Award

Villa Maria Estate has been named Sustainable Business of the Year at the Northern Sustainable Business Network Awards, recognising Villa Maria’s wide ranging commitment to sustainable practices and environmental responsibility.

The 100% family and New Zealand owned winery also scooped the Large Business - Trailblazer award for its innovation and leadership as a sustainable wine business.

Judges praised Villa Maria’s integrated approach to sustainability, pioneering efforts amongst major wine companies from organic production to the promotion of New Zealand’s ‘green’ story on the international stage.

Fabian Yukich, Villa Maria’s Executive Director, says the award is affirmation that sustainability and smart business go hand in hand, a belief long held by the company’s founder and owner, Sir George Fistonich.

Sir George’s unequivocal commitment to sustainable practices has shaped a culture that encourages all employees to reduce our environmental impact.

“Leaving something for the next generation goes to the heart of what it means to be a family owned business”, Mr Yukich says.

Mr Yukich has championed sustainable practices at Villa Maria for more than 14 years and has been instrumental in making social, environmental and financial sustainability core values of Villa Maria Estate.

“To be successful, you have to have the mentality to think long term. This award is proof that sustainability makes good business sense as well as preserving New Zealand’s environment for our children”, Mr Yukich says.

The NZI Sustainable Business Network Awards are the pre-eminent sustainability awards in New Zealand. Villa Maria will now compete in the National Awards on Thursday 22 November in Auckland.