THE WHAT? Henkel has launched a comprehensive global solidarity program that aims to support employees, customers and communities during the global COVID-19 pandemic. 

THE DETAILS As part of the program, the German consumer goods company has allocated donations to charities battling the virus, with €2 million going to the WHO/UN Foundation COVID-19 fund, as well as other selected organizations. 

The payment is said to help provide, “protective equipment for frontline health workers, equip diagnostic laboratories, improve data collection and analysis, establish and maintain intensive care units as well as to accelerate research and development of potential vaccines and therapeutics.”

Henkel will also be providing five million units of personal and household hygiene products to charities, local authorities and partners across the world. Items include hand sanitizers, soaps and protective equipment as well as detergents, disinfectants and other household cleaning products.

The company will also be adapting production to include product disinfectants, give improved payment terms for selected business partners, and offer ongoing crisis management and safety measures for employees. 

THEY WHY? Carsten Knobel, Chief Executive Officer of Henkel, said, “At Henkel, we are committed to help addressing this unprecedented challenge. In line with our values, we want to make a contribution through a comprehensive global solidarity program. We stand united in our fight against the pandemic, striving to protect our employees and their jobs, serving our customers and supporting the communities in which we operate.”