Royal DSM: Strategic Planning, Budgeting and Forecasting

Transitioning towards a sustainable business model

Almost 20 years ago, we began to refocus our operations onto a much more sustainable and responsible footing in response to sustainability megatrends that we felt presented a significant opportunity – and threat if we didn’t respond. We have moved away from fossil fuel based petro chemical businesses and turned to health, nutrition and materials sciences.

At the heart of our mission is the core value of sustainability and a commitment to helping create a more sustainable world. As part of our 2010-2015 strategy, the company took sustainability to the next level. In addition to fulfilling our own responsibilities towards society, we have successfully developed sustainability as a strategic growth driver.

For us, sustainability is a key differentiator and value driver in our markets. We are uniquely positioned to capitalize on the many opportunities this presents across the value chain. As an integral part of the company’s operations, strategic actions and decisions, sustainability guides the activities of our global business groups. They are charged with continuously developing innovative science based products and solutions that contribute to a brighter future for people, while helping to increase our profitability.

In order to have commitment from shareholders for this business model, DSM focused on those investors who take the long term view.