N�rnbergMesse�s BioFach Japan 2012 Draws International Interest
November 27, 2012
The international organic sector met for the 12th year in a row for BioFach Japan 2012 Nov. 21-23 in the Tokyo Big Sight Exhibition Centre.
This year was notable for the large international share of exhibitors. More than 210 companies from 14 nations, compared with 10 nations in 2011 presented their organic products.
Italy, particularly the region of Sicily, and Argentina were at BioFach Japan for the first time. Other countries that participated were Germany, Australia, France, South Korea, Nepal, Austria and the United Arab Emirates.
As in the previous years, natural cosmetic manufacturers invited visitors to test all the exhibited cosmetic products in the established “Vivaness Cosmetic Testing Area”.
This year featured the premiere of the novelty stand, where every exhibiting company was able to present an innovative organic product.
“The novelty stand has attracted a very good response and we have received many international applications,” said Miriam Hempel, exhibition manager at NürnbergMesse, before the show. “So visitors can look forward to a varied spectrum of new organic products.”
Italy’s first-time participation this year at the oldest BioFach event outside Germany was also good news, according to show officials.
Most of the exhibitors came from the region of Sicily, which claims to have one of the largest shares of Italian organic production.
There are altogether 1,964 certified organic producers exporting from Italy, of which 441 come from Sicily alone. Twenty of those presented Sicilian organic products in a large country pavilion at BioFach Japan 2012 – from tomato sauce, sheep’s milk cheese, olives, pasta and capers to juice and wine.
In addition, there were nine exhibitors from France this year. Ubifrance, the Industry and Trade Department of the French Embassy, has given companies from its own country the opportunity to exhibit their products in a pavilion at BioFach Japan for many years.
The Japanese Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) also had a strong presence at the international trade fair and provides financial support for many Japanese organic farmers.
Partner Voices
MGM Resorts is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse culture, not just among employees and guests but also within its supply chain. The company prioritizes procuring goods and services from businesses owned by minorities, women, veterans, people with disabilities, LGBTQ individuals and those facing economic disadvantages. This commitment is integral to MGM Resorts' global procurement strategy.
Through its voluntary supplier diversity program, MGM Resorts actively identifies and connects certified diverse-owned suppliers to opportunities within its supply chain. The company is on track to spend at least 15% of its biddable procurement with diverse-owned businesses by 2025, demonstrating that supplier diversity is not only a social responsibility but also a strategic business imperative.
Supplier diversity isn’t just the right thing to do – it’s good for business. A diverse supply chain allows access to a broader range of perspectives and experience, helping to drive innovation, entrepreneurship and resilience, while strengthening communities. At MGM Resorts, engaging diverse suppliers ensures best-in-class experiences for guests and clients. Supplier diversity ensures a more resilient supply chain while supporting economic development in the communities in which it operates.
The impact of MGM Resorts' supplier diversity initiatives is significant. In 2023, these efforts supported over 3,500 jobs across more than 30 states, contributed over $214 million in income for diverse-owned businesses and generated more than $62 million in tax revenue. The story extends beyond the numbers – it reflects the tangible benefits brought to small and diverse-owned businesses, fostering economic empowerment in their communities.
MGM Resorts also supports the development and business skills of diverse-owned businesses through investment, mentorship and education. Through the MGM Resorts Supplier Diversity Mentorship Program, the company identifies, mentors and develops diverse-owned businesses to fill its future pipeline, while providing businesses with tools and resources to empower and uplift. Since 2017, the program has successfully graduated 105 diverse-owned businesses and is on track to achieve its goal of 150 graduates by 2025.
MGM Resorts’ commitment to supplier diversity not only enhances its business operations but also plays a crucial role in uplifting communities and fostering economic development. This approach reinforces the idea that diversity is a powerful driver of innovation and resilience, benefiting both the company and the wider community.
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