30 January 2025 – CLG Europe and CLG UK groups strengthened as new members join and current members upgrade – leading businesses across sectors continue to showcase determination for a competitive and sustainable future.
We are pleased to announce that the Corporate Leaders Groups – for both the UK and the EU – have welcomed new and upgraded members to kickstart business action in 2025.
Corporate Leaders Group Europe (CLG Europe) has welcomed three new affiliate members CITEO, Nexi Group and Vattenfall - covering circular economy, digital payment sectors and energy. These additions will support CLG Europe’s engagement with the EU to foster the transition to a decarbonised, competitive and resilient Europe. Additionally, Google and SSAB have upgraded to full membership status, reaffirming the commitment of both the steel and technology sectors to building a sustainable future.
Corporate Leaders Group UK (CLG UK) welcomes a new SME member, Beco, to its mission of driving a more sustainable, climate-neutral economy. With SMEs making up 90% of all businesses worldwide while being disproportionately exposed to climate-related risks, CLG UK looks forward to working with Beco on increasing SME access to capacity building and mobilising SME climate leadership.
These new partnerships reflect the continued commitment and determination of forward-thinking organisationsto place sustainable practices at the core of their business strategies benefitting both current and future generations, and represent a huge potential for trailblazing competitive advantage.
Ursula Woodburn, Director of CLG Europe, welcomes the demonstration of renewed commitment from business, stating: “There is no doubt that climate change and the environmental crisis are accelerating, which multiplies the risks we face and poses enormous threats to our society, supply chains and economy. Business as usual is over and corporate leaders understand the critical need to shift to future proof models and for regulation to support the markets we need in the future. In the current political context, business voices are more needed than ever to support EU ambition around a decarbonised, competitive and prosperous society.”
Beverley Cornaby, Director of CLG UK, states: “As we celebrate the addition of new members to the Corporate Leaders Groups, we are reminded of the vital role of business leadership in driving the climate and economic ambitions forward. Our message is clear: economic growth and net zero must not be viewed as opposing forces. They are not just compatible but mutually reinforcing. In today’s global context, where the climate consensus is under threat at home and abroad, championing the economic case for net zero is more critical than ever – and our business members are at the forefront of doing so”
Anna Borg, CEO, Vattenfall, said: “Europe’s path to a competitive future lies in delivering on climate neutrality by 2050– and collaboration is key to achieving it. At Vattenfall, we are committed to building a future where everyone can choose fossil free ways to move, make and live. As a leading European energy company committed to reaching net-zero by 2040, we are pleased to join the Corporate Leaders Group and collaborate with like-minded industry leaders in our joint mission of taking Europe’s energy transition forward”
Vattenfall is a Swedish energy company and one of Europe's largest producers of electricity and heat. For more than 100 years, Vattenfall has supplied energy to industries and households with its main markets in Sweden, Germany, the Netherlands, Denmark and the United Kingdom. To drive the transition towards fossil freedom, Vattenfall continues to increase renewable production to enable the electrification of transportation, industries and heating.
Jean Hornain, CEO, Citeo, stated: “Circular economy is already identified as a relevant instrument for European competitiveness and the strengthening of the Single Market. Citeo, as a key player in sustainable development in France for more than 30 years, is convinced that a collective and inclusive approach of all players and stakeholders, among them companies, is essential. Joining the Corporate Leaders Group contributes to this dynamic for an ambitious and strong European policy”
CITEO is a mission-driven company in France focused on reducing the environmental impact of household packaging and paper. As part of the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) system, CITEO has developed strong expertise in eco-design, reuse, sorting and recycling in close partnership with a wide range of stakeholders.
Saverio Tridico, Group Corporate & External Affairs and ESG Director, Nexi commented: “The commitment to sustainability and the fight against climate change represent an absolute priority for institutions, wider society, investors, but also for companies like Nexi, who can play an important role in improving the ecosystem in which they operate. As European PayTech leader we are pleased to join forces with CLG Europe to have the opportunity to collaborate with other industry leaders in our ambitious climate work and we look forward to sharing our knowledge and experience to create a greater impact across industries.”
Nexi is Europe's PayTech company operating in high-growth, attractive European markets and technologically advanced countries. Having the scale, geographic reach and abilities to drive the transition to a cashless Europe, Nexi simplifies payments and enables people and businesses to build closer relationships and grow together.
Toby Freeman, Sustainability and Brand Manager, Beco, said: “When it comes to improving how we do things at Beco, if we do it alone, it will be a drop in the ocean. We look forward to contributing to the conversation around how we can all work together to build a greener and more equitable society.”
Beco is a producer of essential pet products, working to have a big impact on dogs' lives with as little impact on the planet as possible. A certified B Corp, they're focused on continuous improvement, including taking responsibility for their carbon emissions (certified by The Climate Label), reducing their impact on nature, and contributing towards the shift to a more circular economy through considered materials and design.
