Dairy Crest, the leading British owned dairy company, is delighted to announce it is one of only five companies shortlisted for the Business in the Community (BITC) Responsible Business of the Year Award 2013. Dairy Crest, which manufacturers a number of leading foods brands, including Cathedral City and Clover, is the only food and drink company on the shortlist.

The company has also achieved 98% and a Platinum Big Tick - the highest ranking - in the BITC's annual Corporate Responsibility Index 2013, building on the Highest New Entry position and Gold Award they were awarded in 2012.

Chief Executive Mark Allen said:

"At Dairy Crest, "Doing the Right thing" for our farmers, consumers, employees and business is our clear business strategy. We know that for the future of our business we need a healthy, sustainable dairy sector."

Stephen Howard, Chief Executive of BITC said:

"I congratulate Dairy Crest for achieving a Platinum Big Tick and being shortlisted for the Responsible Business of the Year Award because it signifies a willingness to rise to the challenge and that they are part of a movement of responsible business in which all companies have their part to play."

Winners will be announced at the awards gala dinner event on 2 July 2013 in London.