The report, which will be published tomorrow, finds that the restaurant and bar sector has improved its average score by 8%, but still lags behind the retail and manufacturing sectors.
Companies such as Burger King, Domino’s, Greggs, JD Wetherspoon, McDonald’s, Subway and Starbucks scored 29% on average. Contract catering companies, such as Compass, Elior and SSP scored just 17% on average.
The Business Benchmark notes Greggs as a significant improver, moving its rating from Tier 5 to Tier 3. Mitchells & Butlers (Tier 4) and Whitbread (Tier 3) are also highlighted as key movers. Noble Foods reached the top tier, whilst McDonald’s and Unilever retained their place in Tier 2.
BBFAW executive director, Nicky Amos, said: “The results show that it is realistic for companies across the world and in all sub-sectors; retailers, wholesalers, restaurants, bars and producers to aspire to and achieve high scores in the Benchmark and to recognise the responsibility they hold for the welfare of animals in their supply chains.”
However, JD Wetherspoon displayed no evidence of farm animal welfare on its business agenda and fell to Tier 6. Also in Tier 6 is SSP Group, Domino’s Pizza Group and Burger King.
The Business Benchmark on Farm Animal Welfare provides an annual review of how 90 of the world’s leading food companies are managing and reporting their animal welfare policies and practices.
The report is compiled in collaboration with animal welfare organisations Compassion in World Farming and World Animal Protection and investment firm, Coller Capital.