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The Home Depot Inc.
Atlanta, GA
(800) 430-3376
www.homedepot.com
The world’s largest home-improvement chain has done its own in-house remodeling, modernizing a number of stores and upgrading technology (including a new network operations center in Texas). Not only has The Home Depot worked on its existing stock of facilities, it has also added more than 200 stores over the past year, including approximately 20 locations in Canada and 10 in Mexico (not bad for an industry youngster). In 2005, The Home Depot celebrated its 25th anniversary.
Such rapid growth has required the company to be firm about its core purpose: to “Improve Everything We Touch.” And that means establishing a more comprehensive and integrated approach to corporate responsibility. Chairman, President, and CEO Bob Nardelli is committed to reporting on the company’s progress, including the validation of performance measures most relevant to The Home Depot’s businesses.
Of particular note is the company’s stewardship in environmental initiatives (its first “milestone” was in 1990), mainly its continued commitment to purchase wood products from sustainably managed sources. In concert with its greening initiatives is also an aggressive pledge to reduce energy consumption in its stores.
Giving back is a truly fundamental value of The Home Depot and a passion for its associates. Through an extensive community relations program - We Build CommUnity - the organization reaches out to the communities where associates live and work with both philanthropic and volunteer support. Such community efforts focus on four key areas: building and refurbishing playgrounds, ensuring the safety and accessibility of community gathering spaces, building and refurbishing affordable and transitional housing, and preparing communities for emergencies. Volunteerism is embraced both collectively and individually throughout the organization. Either way offers the same result: making a difference.
