On November 6, 2024, Zotter Chocolates proudly received the prestigious Primus Award for “Living Sustainability” during a grand gala hosted by the Kleine Zeitung in Graz, Austria. This recognition highlights the innovative spirit and success of businesses even amid economic challenges.
Despite the ongoing struggles in the economy, Zotter Chocolates stands as a testament to how sustainable business practices can flourish. More than 100 companies from Styria competed for this notable economic award, and Zotter’s commitment to organic, sustainable practices has long established it as a leader in the field.
At Zotter, visitors can immerse themselves in an experience of sustainability through the “Edible Zoo,” a concept introduced by Josef Zotter in 2011. This bio-farming initiative features a modern barn housing 60 pigs and 80 cattle, all benefiting from extensive outdoor spaces. The recently opened glass butchery, known as “Öko Speck Takel,” allows guests to observe the butchers at work, transforming meat from their own organic farm into gourmet delicacies. “If we can encourage visitors to reduce their meat consumption and pay attention to better, locally-sourced organic quality, we’ve succeeded,” explains Josef Zotter regarding the initiative.
Zotter’s Edible Zoo operates energy self-sufficiently, with excess electricity redirected to the chocolate factory, covering up to 60% of its energy needs. Currently, they offer an impressive range of 500 different chocolate varieties, all produced with pure organic and fair-trade quality at their Bean-to-Bar facility in Riegersburg, Austria.
During the award ceremony, Julia Zotter humorously announced the special chocolate chosen to celebrate the Primus Award: “Sautanz Specktakel” – a creation that comes with a bit of heart and soul.
“We are thrilled to receive this award and the recognition it brings,” they said, underscoring the importance of sustainability in future business endeavors.
As Zotter Chocolates continues to invest in ecological and social initiatives, they are proud to showcase that sustainable practices are not just achievable but integral to their mission.