North American Retailers Explore Sustainable Palm Oil in Ecuador

The visitors spent time in the Orellana province meeting growers from ANCUPA, Ecuador’s national palm oil association. These producers are currently navigating the technical and socio-economic hurdles of maintaining deforestation-free operations while attempting to secure RSPO certification. For the visiting companies, the excursion served as a departure from traditional procurement, offering a rare look at the human element of their supply chains.

The itinerary included a stop at Grupo Danec’s mill, where the company showcased its latest industrial infrastructure alongside its ACUS La Pantera ecological reserve. By protecting over 500 hectares of forest, the firm highlighted a model where industrial output and biodiversity conservation coexist. Jon Hixson, Chief Sustainability Officer at Yum! Brands, noted that direct engagement with local farmers provides a necessary perspective on how corporate investment can drive regional impact beyond simple purchasing targets.

Cameron Plese, head of North American affairs for the RSPO, emphasized that while many member firms have reached 100% sustainable sourcing, true leadership now requires deeper, hands-on investment in local communities. Following a similar 2025 field trip to Peru, this mission to Ecuador underscores a shift toward collaborative supply chain management, where global buyers move beyond certification labels to foster direct partnerships with the producers managing the landscape.