The Co-operators recognized as one of the Top 50 Socially Responsible Corporations in Canada

GUELPH, ON, June 4, 2015 /CNW/ - For the third consecutive year The Co-operators has been listed among the 50 Most Socially Responsible Corporations in Canada. The companies on the list, compiled by global sustainability analysis and research firm Sustainalytics for Maclean's, rank atop their respective industries based on their strong performance across a broad range of environmental, social and governance (ESG) indicators.

The organizations' evaluations included such considerations as their environmental initiatives, impact on local communities, treatment of employees and supply-chain management. They must also have demonstrated strong public disclosure on ESG management and performance. Once again, there is strong representation on the list from co-operatives and credit unions, whose principles and governance models lend themselves well to sustainability.

The Co-operators has taken a lead role in helping build more resilient communities through its research and advocacy work, in order to better protect Canadians and their property. In 2014, the organization hosted the Partners for Action Roundtable, where a wide range of stakeholders collaborated to identify and prioritize actions needed to strengthen flood resiliency in Canada. On May 25, The Co-operators became the first Canadian insurance company to offer insurance against overland flooding for homeowners, when it launched its groundbreaking new coverage in Alberta.

The development of more resilient and sustainable communities is also supported through the organization's community programming. In 2014, The Co-operators contributed more than $4.9 million to Canadian co-operatives, non-profits and charities.

"Creating resilient communities is about looking at the economic, environmental and social needs of Canadians. Putting those needs first is inherently part of our identity as a co-operative insurer and is embedded in our day-to-day decision-making" said Kathy Bardswick, president and CEO of The Co-operators. "We are committed to sustainability and, through the determination and support of our employees and advisors, are helping to create a healthier and more sustainable world."

The complete list of the Top 50 Socially Responsible Corporations in Canada is published in the June 15 edition of Maclean's, and the July issue of L'actualité, both of which are available on newsstands this week. For more information on The Co-operators and its social, economic and environmental performance, please see its recently released Sustainability Report at www.cooperators.ca/sustainability_report.

About The Co-operators:
The Co-operators Group Limited is a Canadian-owned co-operative with more than $40 billion in assets under administration. Through its group of companies it offers home, auto, life, group, travel, commercial and farm insurance, as well as investment products. The Co-operators is well known for its community involvement and its commitment to sustainability. The Co-operators is listed among the 50 Best Employers in Canada by Aon Hewitt; Corporate Knights' Best 50 Corporate Citizens in Canada; and the Top 50 Socially Responsible Corporations in Canada by Sustainalytics and Maclean's magazine. For more information visit www.cooperators.ca.

SOURCE The Co-operators

Leonard Sharman, The Co-operators, 519-767-3937