Moving with meaning
As one of Australia’s leading freight forwarding companies, Stockwells has not only focused on delivering efficient logistics solutions but also on fostering a meaningful commitment to people, communities and the planet. With Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) practices becoming increasingly central to businesses worldwide, Stockwells continues to lead by example.
We sat down with Maddy, Stockwells’ marketing and ESG coordinator, about our 2024 ESG priorities and impact.
Why ESG matters
For Stockwells, ESG isn’t just about ticking boxes – it’s about taking meaningful action. Director of Sales and Marketing, Angela Gambell, says, “There’s too much noise and debate about what’s right or wrong when it comes to sustainability. For us, it’s about taking action where we can and contributing to the best of our abilities.”
This mindset has shaped Stockwells’ approach, ensuring that every initiative, whether it’s reducing emissions or supporting local charities, is intentional and impactful.
Stockwells’ approach to ESG
“For us, ESG isn’t just a buzzword – it’s about being a responsible corporate citizen,” Maddy explains. “Freight forwarding is inherently tied to carbon emissions, but we’re committed to finding ways to minimise our environmental footprint while giving back to the communities we serve.”
This commitment to environmental sustainability and social responsibility is embedded in Stockwells’ culture. From donating to local charities and supporting employee volunteering to creating actionable plans for fuel emissions reduction, we are making strides towards bettering ourselves and the world around us.
The 2024/25 vision
The overarching ESG vision for Stockwells in 2024/25 focuses on reducing the company’s environmental impact and strengthening social initiatives.
“We’ve set ambitious goals, like achieving significant fuel impact reductions by 2026,” Maddy shares. “This includes optimising transport routes, monitoring fuel usage and packing containers more efficiently. We’re also continuing to partner with organisations like Greenfleet to offset emissions through programs like tree planting.”
Environmental initiatives:
Greenfleet: Stockwells has pledged a $5,000 donation to Greenfleet, facilitating the planting of 0.5 hectares of native flora at the Ledcourt site in Central Victoria. This area, on the lands of the Jadwadjali and Djabwurung peoples, adjoins the Grampians National Park and supports diverse wildlife like platypuses, kangaroos and echidnas.
Currumbin Wildlife Hospital partnership: Stockwells has donated $10,000 to establish mature trees in a new Exercise Koala Enclosure at Currumbin’s Eco-Parklands. This initiative enhances the hospital’s capacity to rehabilitate koalas, preparing them for reintroduction into the wild.
Operational sustainability: Stockwells’ Brisbane and Sydney offices are equipped with solar panels, and all offices feature recycling programs to manage paper, cardboard, wood and general waste responsibly. We’ve also introduced rechargeable batteries in partnership with Chaarg, reducing reliance on single-use options.
Fleet efficiency: Stockwells aims to reduce fuel impact by 5% by 2026 through route optimisation, cleaner fuel strategies and advanced fleet technology.
Social Initiatives:
- Partnerships with charities like Lions Clubs Australia, Mater Dei and Friends with Dignity continue in 2024.
- Stockwells’ Customer Experience Program ensures a superior client journey through detailed onboarding, satisfaction surveys and dedicated key account managers.
- Employees are encouraged to volunteer and engage with community-focused projects, fostering a culture of giving back.
- Stockwells has invested in an Employee Assistance Program through Acacia EAP to ensure we can provide our staff with the best support possible.
Governance initiatives:
Accountability: Board members act as role models, advocating for safety, risk management and education. Strategies include toolbox meetings, ISO compliance and mandatory training.
Transparency: Monthly financial reporting, external audits and internal newsletters keep stakeholders informed.
Fairness: Open-door policies, feedback mechanisms and a commitment to ethical treatment foster trust and collaboration.
Continuous improvement: Regular reviews of policies and procedures ensure adaptability and compliance in a highly regulated industry.
Risk management & security: Comprehensive protocols for risk identification, reporting, and mitigation protect our staff, clients and assets. Advanced security systems, data protection measures and strict onboarding protocols safeguard business operations.
Maddy’s personal connection to ESG
For Maddy, these initiatives resonate personally. She recalls attending Currumbin Wildlife Hospital’s fundraising gala, where she was moved by stories of koalas impacted by habitat loss and disease. “Hearing the head vet speak was both eye-opening and motivating,” she says. “It really showed how much our support can make a difference.”
Another standout moment for her was volunteering for a week with NASCA, a non profit organisation supporting First Nations youth in the Northern Territory to improve school engagement.
“It was such a beautiful experience that reaffirmed why our ESG work is so important,” she says.
She also volunteers weekly with the Pyjama Foundation, mentoring young people in foster care.
“Stockwells has been incredibly supportive, allowing me the flexibility to leave work early for this. It’s a testament to how much the company values giving back – not just as a brand initiative but as a core part of who we are.”
This culture of empowerment and involvement extends company-wide. Whether it’s organising staff-led initiatives or supporting local sporting clubs and domestic violence refuges, Stockwells encourages everyone to play a part.
Challenges along the way
While the progress has been significant, there have been challenges.
“One of the biggest hurdles has been educating staff about what ESG actually means,” Maddy explains. “It’s still a relatively new concept for Stockwells, which has a strong foundation in traditional practices.”
To address this, Maddy has focused on making ESG more accessible and relatable for employees. “We’ve had to start slow, build conversations and create buy-in,” she adds. “It’s about showing people that these initiatives aren’t just ‘nice to have’ – they’re essential for our future.”
Resistance to change is another obstacle. “It can be daunting for people in a traditional industry to adapt to new priorities like sustainability,” Maddy says. “But we’re working hard to balance these goals with our operational needs and bring everyone along on the journey.”
Looking ahead
As Stockwells moves into 2025, the focus remains on creating a legacy of responsible logistics. From providing detailed emissions reports to clients to exploring direct tree-planting programs, we are determined to innovate and collaborate for a sustainable future.
Maddy sums it up perfectly: “At Stockwells, we’re not just moving goods from point A to B. We’re moving towards a future where our industry can thrive without compromising the environment or the communities we serve. It’s a challenge, but it’s one we’re proud to take on.”
With a strong ESG strategy and a culture of care, Stockwells is proving that even in the fast-paced world of freight forwarding, there’s always room to make a positive impact.
View our full ESG here.