Novartis recognized among “most ethical companies”

May 10, 2007 - Novartis was named one of the three most ethical pharma and biotech companies in the world by Ethisphere Magazine, following an in-depth analysis over a six-month period by several non-governmental organizations and the publication's editors.

After studying thousands of corporations in many industries, the quarterly magazine said Novartis is one of fewer than 100 deserving the designation of the “World's Most Ethical Companies.” Within the pharma and biotech sector, Novartis, Genzyme and Novo Nordisk were top-ranked. Circulating to senior managers, Ethisphere Magazine emphasizes the correlation between corporate citizenship and long-term profits.

“It was a rigorous selection process. The organizations chosen for the list of World's Most Ethical Companies possess strong internal systems that encourage ethical behavior not only from its leaders but from its employees,” said Alex Brigham, executive editor of Ethisphere Magazine. “These companies go beyond making statements about doing business ethically; they translate those words into actions.”

The survey included a review of companies' codes of ethics; regulatory and litigation histories; investment in innovation and sustainable practices; activities designed to improve corporate citizenship; input from company executives, peers, suppliers and customers; and feedback and ratings from consumer action groups.

More information on the program can be found at www.ethisphere.com.