We source hazelnuts from Italy and Turkey. The hazelnut supply chain in the Turkish Black Sea region, where approximately 70% of the world’s harvest originates, has serious challenges, especially concerning labor conditions. This is why we have been working closely with our Turkish hazelnut suppliers since 2014 on implementing programs aimed at improving the economic, agricultural, social, and environmental sustainability of hazelnut gardens.

In 2020, we reached our goal and sourced 100% of Turkish raw (unprocessed) hazelnuts through sustainability programs. We even surpassed our commitment by integrating processed hazelnuts into the scope of our sustainable sourcing activities in Turkey. In 2021, we will continue to work closely with our Turkish hazelnut suppliers and support them as they expand and improve their sustainability programs. Our hazelnut sourcing model is based on long-term relationships with select suppliers and a stable farmer base. All our Turkish suppliers are members of the Fair Labor Association (FLA). Following the same structure as the Lindt & Sprüngli Farming Program for cocoa, our hazelnut program is based on four pillars:

1. Traceability and farmer organization
2. Training and knowledge transfer
3. Farmer investments and community development
4. Verification and continuous progress