Sustainability

A Message from Our President & CEO

Throughout our 100-year history, Taking Care of the Customer has remained the guiding principle at Applied^®. As a critical business partner across virtually all industrial markets, we have played a significant role in maximizing our customers’ productivity and returns across their core operational assets –ethically and responsibly.

As a distributor, we maintain a low-carbon footprint. Supporting and helping our customers reduce their environmental impact is fundamental across our organization. Where appropriate, we advise customers on energy savings in their operations, including conducting energy audits in critical areas such as motors, belting and gearing, and developing innovative engineered solutions that reduce greenhouse gas emissions. We also promote product alternatives that are bio-based, non-toxic and / or made from recycled content.

Building on our legacy also means being a responsible corporate citizen by implementing greener practices in our operations, promoting diversity and inclusion, supporting the well-being of our associates, and much more. As part of our centennial celebration, Applied’s many U.S. locations have participated in a special 100-year anniversary volunteer initiative focused on giving back in the communities where our associates live and work. Helping our communities has always been part of our foundation, and we are especially pleased to spotlight our enhanced engagement in this year’s report, included below.

Additional highlights in our 2023 Report include: newly added energy consumption and GHG emissions detail, which will serve as a baseline for future reporting periods; expanded information on our sustainability solutions and initiatives; and other broadened details on Applied’s ESG actions.

Overall, we have much to be proud of as we reflect on our success and evolution. Our Applied associates and their commitment to our Core Values represent the foundation of this progress. The Applied Core Values include: Integrity, Respect, Customer Focus, Commitment to Excellence, Accountability, Innovation, Continuous Improvement, and Teamwork. These values resonate throughout the organization to guide associates and reinforce performance standards, every day.

That said, we also know our journey is not complete. We continue to have an opportunity and responsibility to further develop plans, actions and results that promote sustainable and ethical practices across our business. Collectively, we recognize our business requirements and social responsibility as we continue to enhance our position as a differentiated industrial distributor and extend our Company’s legacy into the future.

We encourage you to read our 2023 ESG Report and learn more about our business, the dedicated efforts of our associates, and our active sustainability initiatives.