Danone Receives IDFA's Workplace of the Year Award

PALM DESERT, Calif. — Danone was recognized with the third annual International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) Workplace of the Year Award at IDFA’s Dairy Forum in Palm Desert, Calif.

The award, which is co-sponsored by IDFA and Dairy Processing magazine, is given each year to an outstanding IDFA member company that has created policies to promote a positive workplace experience for employees. Award recipients demonstrate efforts, create cultures of inclusiveness and respect, support professional development, and establish paid parental leave, flexible work hours and gender pay equality, among other criteria.

“IDFA is proud to honor Danone with the 2026 Workplace of the Year Award, celebrating the company’s steadfast commitment to building an inclusive, collaborative culture where every employee can thrive,” said Becky Rasdall Vargas, IDFA senior vice president for trade and workforce policy. “Our independent panel of judges was impressed by Danone’s dedication to empowering its people, from fostering employee resource groups and establishing dedicated time for meaningful professional growth, to supporting work-life balance through flexible workplace policies. IDFA congratulates Danone on this well-earned recognition of its leadership in creating an exemplary and supportive workplace.”

The panel of judges determined, in a blind review of nominees, that Danone set a high bar for their programs and policies focused on the physical, mental, and financial wellness of employees; leadership and professional development; paid parental and family leave and flexible work; and creating a culture of inclusiveness and respect for all people.

“We are very honored to receive the IDFA Workplace of the Year Award,” said Miguel Oliveira, senior director, head of opportunity & belonging for all with Danone U.S. “Building culture is a team sport, so this award belongs to every Danoner who day in, and day out give their best to bring health through food to as many people while nurturing a work environment that promotes opportunity and belonging for all.”

Previous winners of the IDFA Workplace of the Year Award are Saputo USA (2025) and Schreiber Foods (2024).

A call for nominations for the 2027 Workplace of the Year Award will be released this summer. More information about the award can be found here.