The Wittern Group Announces Its Commitment To The American Business Act On Climate Pledge

DES MOINES, IOWA – December 7, 2015 – U-Select-It, Inc. (USI), a leading global vending machine equipment manufacturer, announces The Wittern Group’s commitment to the American Business Act on Climate Pledge.  The official announcement from the White House highlights the commitments from 73 companies, including The Wittern Group, from across the American economy that are joining the American Business Act on Climate Pledge. With this announcement, a total of 154 companies will have signed the Pledge.  These companies have operations in all 50 states, employ nearly 11 million people, represent more than $4.2 trillion in annual revenue, and have a combined market capitalization of over $7 trillion.

By signing the American Business Act on Climate Pledge, The Wittern Group is voicing support for an outcome that takes a strong step forward toward a low-carbon, sustainable future at the COP21 Paris climate negotiations.  As a part of this Pledge, The Wittern Group is demonstrating an ongoing focus on climate action by committing to:

Reducing water usage by 10% by 2020

Reducing greenhouse gas emissions in their vending products by 45% by 2025

Increasing investment in low-carbon, climate-resilient, and green projects by $2 million by 2025

Developing long-term business plans that align with the deep DE carbonization necessary to keep global average temperatures from rising less than 2C

“Sustainability is an important initiative for USI and The Wittern Group as we look to grow our business while remaining agile amid a changing environmental landscape,” USI’s Vice President, Global Sales, James Chico commented. “By committing to the American Business Act on Climate Pledge, The Wittern Group, along with USI, is taking a leadership role by focusing on initiatives that will increase the profile of the vending industry and demonstrate our industry’s commitment to climate action.”

The Wittern Group is one of seven National Automatic Merchandising Association (NAMA) member companies that have committed to the American Business Act on Climate Pledge.  NAMA is the association representing the $25 billion U.S. vending and refreshment service industry.  These seven companies demonstrate an ongoing commitment to climate action and to voice their support for a strong outcome at the Paris climate negotiations.

“The Wittern Group recognizes that delaying action on climate change will be costly in economic and human terms, while accelerating the transition to a low-carbon, sustainable economy will produce multiple benefits with regard to economic growth, public health, and the well being of the global environment,” commented Heidi Chico, CEO of The Wittern Group and NAMA Board Member.  “The Wittern Group is proud to be a small but integral part in addressing climate change and through this Pledge has committed to ambitious, yet achievable, goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and utilize clean energy alternatives.”

About U-Select-It, Inc.

With a successful track record of over 80 years, U-Select-It, Inc. is an industry leader in drink and snack vending machine manufacturing and equipment.  The Company utilizes award winning technology and offers factory direct warranties, parts and service, financing, and vending software solutions.  USI’s full service program provides clients globally with innovative, quality vending solutions.