years
Years of continuous innovation in circular economy applications since our transition in 2020
Technological waste generated through our integrated processing systems
Metric tons of CO2 emissions prevented annually through our circular approach
- Our Theory of Change
Guiding Principles That Drive Our Impact
At AZ Group, our approach to business is guided by a clear theory of change – a framework that connects our daily operations to the broader impact we seek to create in the world. This framework is built on two foundational elements: our Core Values and our commitment to Circular Economy.
Circular Economy: Our Business Model for the Future
Since 2020, AZ Group has operated as Albania’s first and only business fully functioning under a Circular Economy model. This approach represents more than just efficient resource use – it’s a complete reimagining of how business can create value while regenerating natural systems.
Through our integrated companies, we’ve created a closed-loop system where animal by-products that were once considered waste become valuable inputs for multiple industries. This model delivers three key benefits:
Environmental Regeneration
By collecting and repurposing both edible and non-edible animal by-products, we significantly reduce carbon emissions and prevent environmental contamination. Our zero-waste approach means nothing is discarded - everything finds its highest-value use, creating a negative carbon footprint across our operations.
Economic Value Creation
Our circular model transforms potential waste into marketable products across food, feed, fuel, and pharmaceutical applications. This approach not only creates new revenue streams but also reduces costs for our partners throughout the value chain, demonstrating that sustainability and profitability can reinforce each other.
Educational Leadership
We serve as a living example of circular economy principles in action, helping educate businesses and communities about sustainable alternatives. By demonstrating the practical benefits of our approach, we inspire others to adopt similar practices, creating a multiplier effect that extends our impact beyond our direct operations.
- Core Values
The Foundation of Our Culture
Customer Centric
We place customer needs at the center of everything we do, prioritizing quality and reliability in our products and services. Our commitment extends beyond basic satisfaction – we aim to exceed expectations, even when it requires additional investment on our part. We believe that true customer centricity creates lasting relationships built on trust and consistent performance.
Accountability
We foster a culture where everyone takes ownership of their actions and decisions. This accountability extends throughout our organization, empowering team members to develop high levels of competence and autonomy. We believe that when people take responsibility for outcomes – both successes and failures – they contribute to collective growth and achievement.
Innovation
We embrace thoughtful experimentation and learning through action, understanding that meaningful innovation requires taking calculated risks. We distinguish between mistakes from carelessness (which we avoid) and mistakes made in pursuit of improvement (which we encourage). Our approach creates a safe space for creative problem-solving, recognizing that breakthroughs rarely come on the first attempt.
Collaboration
We believe that better results come from uniting our strengths – whether within our teams, with clients, suppliers, or external partners. Every team member is encouraged to feel they belong and contribute to our shared mission. This collaborative spirit extends beyond our company walls to include our entire value chain, creating integrated solutions that benefit all stakeholders.
Sustainability
We recognize that the environment in which we conduct business is the same one we want to preserve for future generations. This awareness drives our commitment to sustainable practices throughout our operations, from daily routines to strategic decisions. We believe business success and environmental stewardship must go hand in hand to create lasting positive impact.
Putting Theory Into Practice
These foundational elements – our Core Values and Circular Economy model – work together to guide every aspect of our business. From product development and manufacturing processes to employee development and stakeholder relationships, our theory of change provides a consistent framework for decision-making and action.
The result is a business that creates value on multiple levels: for customers through quality products, for employees through meaningful work, for partners through sustainable collaboration, and for the planet through regenerative practices.
