The Mexican Center for Philanthropy (CEMFI) has awarded capsicum and cucumber grower Divemex its fourth consecutive Socially Responsible Enterprise Award.

The award is based on business ethics, environmental care, contributions to the community and employee quality of life.

"This award illustrates Divemex’s commitment to doing what is best for our stakeholders just because ‘we love what we do’ and want to do it better each time," said operations director Jaime Tamayo.

Divemex recently announced it was the only farm of its size to achieve Fair Trade certification in Mexico, with a wide range of benefits to employees including free dental care, medical services for pregnant women, educational services and fully paid vacation benefits.

The company has also been commended for its environmental practices, including recycling programs for paper, plastic and batteries, and 20 new initiatives designed to save water.

Canada-based Oppenheimer Group sources products from Divemex and congratulated the Mexican company's progress in bringing positive change to workers.

"The grower puts the same level of care into the environment, and into improving the quality of life for the 800 families involved in bringing the product to market," says Oppenheimer greenhouse category director Aaron Quon.

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