The British multinational Diageo reaffirmed its confidence in the Dominican market, which today represents nearly 40% of its sales in the Caribbean and Central America. The company has highlighted the importance of its commercial partner MercaSID for the positioning of the Dominican Republic as a reference in the region, being a strategic pillar for its regional growth, with an outstanding performance in the premium beverage category.
This important celebration was attended by Debra Crew, CEO of Diageo, who visited us for the first time to support, in the framework of the 10th anniversary, the successful alliance with MercaSID, a collaboration that has transformed the landscape of beverage consumption in the country and consolidated the island as a regional benchmark.
“In the Dominican Republic, we not only sell products, but we become part of the people’s story. We will continue to support this market, promoting initiatives that generate a positive impact and strengthen our bond with the community hand in hand with our commercial partner MercaSID,” said Debra Crew, CEO of Diageo.
For her part, Ligia Bonetti, executive president of Grupo SID, emphasized: “This visit is a reaffirmation of our mutual commitment and a common long-term vision. At Grupo SID, we believe that great alliances are built on shared purpose and courageous decisions. We are ready to continue growing, innovating and leading, together with you, in a rapidly evolving market that demands more responsibility, creativity and passion”.
Thanks to the alliance with MercaSID, Diageo has a portfolio of highly recognized global brands, including Johnnie Walker, Buchanan’s, Old Parr, Smirnoff, Don Julio and Baileys, all with a strong presence in the Dominican market.
While José Miguel Bonetti, executive vice president of Grupo SID, emphasized: “Our business has octupled since its inception, however, it is not only about numbers, we have left footprints in our society, promoting responsible consumption, making the industry more competitive and promoting a development that impacts everyone. Because we know that the true legacy is not only measured in sales, but in the positive impact we leave on our people and their environment.
An important moment of this meeting was the recognition that Debra Crew, CEO of Diageo, gave to Ligia Bonetti, executive president of Grupo SID and Jose Miguel Bonetti Du-Breil, executive vice president of MercaSID, for their dedication and commitment, reinforcing Diageo’s link with the business group and the region, highlighting the key role played by the Dominican Republic and Latin America in its growth strategy, driven by innovation, resilience and diversity.
Álvaro Cárdenas, Diageo’s president for Latin America and the Caribbean, also highlighted the importance of the local market: “The Dominican Republic is a fundamental pillar for Diageo in Latin America and the Caribbean. We began our history in this market 23 years ago, and today it represents close to 40% of our sales in the Caribbean and Central America. It is a key country for our growth, and we deeply value the trust and preference of Dominican consumers.”
Beyond the commercial side, the company has been an active presence in Dominican social development. Its Smashed educational program has impacted more than 200,000 young people in responsible alcohol consumption. Learning for Life has provided training to close to 10,000 people, prioritizing women and vulnerable communities. In sustainability, we have recycled more than 630 tons of glass, and implemented the use of reusable packaging with ecoSPIRITS to reduce our environmental footprint.
With a decade of shared success, Diageo and MercaSID look to the future with a renewed commitment to quality, sustainability and social development.
DIAGEO is one of the world’s leading premium spirits companies, with a diverse and recognized portfolio that includes iconic brands such as Johnnie Walker, Guinness, Tanqueray, Smirnoff, Baileys, Don Julio and Buchanan’s, among many others. Present in more than 180 countries, the company combines a strong heritage with constant innovation, leading the industry in sustainability, responsibility and diversity. Through its “Celebrate life, every day, everywhere” approach, DIAGEO seeks to create a positive impact in the communities where it operates, promoting responsible consumption and committing to sustainable practices throughout its value chain.
MercaSID actively participated in Grupo SID’s Reforestation Day 2024, an initiative that also had the support of Induspalma and Induveca 🌱💚 collaborators.
On this occasion, we joined forces to plant more than 5,000 seedlings of cocoa, oak and other native species in Monte Plata. This action reaffirms our commitment to environmental conservation and the fight against climate change, contributing to the increase of forested areas in our country.
During the event, we had the presence of the General Manager of Induspalma, Ana Bonetti, who highlighted the importance of these initiatives to promote a culture of sustainability and environmental commitment within the organization 🤝🌿.
Beyond the planting of trees, the event aimed to strengthen environmental awareness among our employees, demonstrating that every effort adds up to care for our environment.
At Grupo SID, we believe in the power of concrete actions to generate a positive impact. Therefore, we will continue to promote initiatives that drive sustainable development and motivate more people to be part of the change ♻️🌍.
MercaSID has been recognized by Kimberly-Clark by being selected to be part of its exclusive “Distributor of the Future” program, an initiative that drives growth and innovation in the brand’s distribution network regionally.
Out of a total of 294 distributors in Latin America, only 10 companies were chosen to participate in this program, and MercaSID is proud to be among them. This distinction highlights our commitment, performance and leadership in the market, consolidating us as one of Kimberly-Clark’s main commercial partners in the region.
Through this initiative, we will receive specialized workshops and strategic training, with the objective of strengthening our capabilities and continuing to innovate in our work as distributors.
At MercaSID, we remain committed to growth and excellence, reaffirming our commitment to quality and service in order to always offer the best to our customers and consumers.
MercaSID, a company of the business conglomerate Grupo SID, announced today a strategic alliance with the renowned Guatemalan company Industria La Popular, for the exclusive distribution of new personal and home care brands in the Dominican Republic.
This agreement strengthens the product offering of the company that has established itself as a benchmark in the mass consumer products industry in the Dominican Republic, expanding its portfolio with innovative and quality solutions that respond to the daily needs of Dominican families.
Through this alliance, NeutroSkin, DK12 and Jabonito toilet soaps will reach the Dominican market, each designed to offer a superior personal care experience at very competitive prices. In addition, Zagas dishwasher and Ultra Klin detergent, products that stand out for their efficiency in cleaning and home care, will be introduced.
Each of them aims to make life more pleasurable by offering truly unforgettable sensory experiences. They also reflect the commitment of both companies to provide safe, affordable products that make consumers’ lives easier and more comfortable.
José Miguel Bonetti Du-Breil, Executive Vice President of MercaSID said: “We are very excited to announce this alliance with La Popular, which not only strengthens our product portfolio, but also reaffirms our commitment to offer innovative and affordable solutions to Dominican families.
He added that “with the arrival of these new brands, we are better positioned to meet the daily needs of our consumers, ensuring that each product not only meets the highest standards, but also improves the quality of life of those who use them. This collaboration is one more step in our mission to create well-being and value in the Dominican market.
Estuardo Mejía Yancos, General Manager of Industria La Popular, said: “This alliance with MercaSID is an important milestone for the company, as it allows us to introduce our presence in the Dominican market and bring our brands to a wider audience. We are proud to present products that have been designed to meet consumers’ expectations of quality and efficiency. We seek not only to enrich the daily lives of Dominican families, but also to foster long-term relationships of trust in the region. Together, we can offer a consumer experience that resonates with the community’s values and needs.
The alliance between MercaSID and Industria La Popular goes beyond a commercial expansion; it is a joint effort to integrate high quality products with sustainable practices that respect the environment. Both companies share a vision of the future that is aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), so this collaboration seeks not only to meet the needs of consumers, but also to contribute to a cleaner and more sustainable environment.
This new alliance adds to MercaSID’s portfolio of commercial partners, which includes partnerships with renowned international brands such as Flora Group, DIAGEO, Kimberly-Clark, Henkel, General Mills, Hershey’s, WK Kellogg’s Co, Danone, Cervecería Centro Americana, among others. These strategic relationships have allowed MercaSID to bring prestigious products to Dominican homes.
About MercaSID
MercaSID is the leading company in the production and distribution of oils, edible fats and cereals, as well as in the distribution of leading brands worldwide in the family care, food and beverage categories.
Family-owned company based in Central America, founded in 1920. It produces and markets high-quality, high-value products for the markets it serves in the home care, personal care, cosmetics, raw materials, packaging materials, and maquilas categories.
MercaSID participated in the XV Jornada de Pediatría de la Asociación Dominicana de Pediatría, which took place July 18-20, 2024 at the Renaissance Jaragua Hotel in Santo Domingo. In this event, MercaSID presented the Brazilian Barbara Peters Ph. D., doctor in nutrition, member of the Scientific Committee of the Latin American Alliance for Responsible Nutrition (ALANUR), Executive President of the International Life Science Institute of Brazil (ILSI – Brazil) who offered a conference and dialogues on the benefits of soy protein powder and the brand Nutra Milk.
Dr. Peters was present at the Nutra booth on Friday and Saturday to share her experience in infant feeding. Also, on Saturday, July 20, the expert gave a lecture during lunch at the La Fiesta Theater, entitled “Soy is healthy for children”. In this space, she provided detailed information on the subject and answered questions from approximately 900 pediatricians who attended the event.
A highly nutritious food
Leche Nutra, distributed by MercaSID, is a soy protein powder drink that provides a wide range of essential nutrients for the optimal development and well-being of children and adults. This drink is an excellent alternative for infant feeding, providing fundamental nutritional benefits for healthy growth and development. As it is made with soy protein isolate, whey and vegetable fat of high nutritional value, it provides essential vitamins and minerals for the body. Nutra has a varied portfolio that meets the needs of the Dominican family. Of these products we have lactose-free and two variants that are experts in child development: Nutra Junior and Nutra Junior DHA.
The presentation of Nutra and the participation of Dr. Peters in the XV Pediatrics Conference demonstrate the commitment of MercaSID to be a brand allied in the nutritional well-being of the whole family, by offering products with high nutritional value and inviting renowned personalities to give dialogues in favor of health. In this way, MercaSID continues working to promote the progress of the medical community in the Dominican Republic.
Barbara Santarosa Emo Peters, Ph. D.
Nutritionist. Specialist in Clinical Nutrition. PhD in Public Health from the University of São Paulo (USP). Post-doctorate in Clinical Endocrinology from the Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP), and in Nutrition and Public Health from USP. She is currently a member of the Scientific Committee of the Latin American Alliance for Responsible Nutrition (ALANUR). Executive President of the International Life Science Institute of Brazil (ILSI – Brazil). Leader in Latin America for Clinical Innovation and Translation at IFF, supporting topics on functional ingredients.
Avena Americana, a MercaSID brand recognized for its commitment to health and quality products, held a unique and special celebration in honor of Oatmeal Cookie Day.
Avena Americana surprised all its employees with the delivery of oatmeal cookies accompanied by samples of the product and a recipe booklet to prepare delicious creations. This initiative, in addition to sweetening the employees’ day, served as a way to inspire families to enjoy a culinary experience together.
Taking its commitment a step further, Avena Americana extended this initiative to the Ágora Mall, where they also shared samples of the product and highlighted the multiple benefits of this healthy and natural food for the heart, the improvement of the immune system and its help in regulating digestion. It is also rich in fiber, calcium, iron and proteins, making it an ideal option for the whole family. It has six varieties, including instant oatmeal, whole grain, ground, old fashioned, oat bran and oat cakes to make pancakes, offering delicious options for all tastes and needs.
Avena Americana is available in all supermarkets nationwide. You can follow the social networks to be aware of all the news and tips offered by Avena Americana on Instagram as: @avenaamericana and on Facebook as Avena Americana RD.
In its firm commitment to the sustainable development of the country in all its pillars, MercaSID together with more than 100 volunteers held its XIV reforestation day through its ReforestaSID program, which aims to contribute to the restoration of water-producing areas or micro-watersheds, contribute to the forest cover and the protection of flora and fauna in the Dominican Republic.
On this day, in alliance with Fondo Agua Santo Domingo, 6 hectares were reforested through the planting of more than 7,000 agroforestry seedlings of cocoa, bitter orange and cedar in the town of Otaña in Monte Plata, which also contributed to the strengthening and replenishment of the water flow of the Savita River micro-basin, part of the Ozama River Basin.
Once again MercaSID together with the collaborators that make up the SID Group: Induveca and Induspalma join forces with the dedication, motivation and commitment to impact a more sustainable future to improve the quality of life of all Dominicans and the communities in the area.
“At MercaSID we are firm in our mission to contribute to the conservation and sustainable management of natural resources, which is why we execute and support strategic actions that promote the restoration and preservation of the environment,” said Leyla Alfonso, director of corporate communications at Grupo SID.
Likewise, Claudia Rodríguez, director of Quality, Safety and Environment said: “at MercaSID we are betting on the future that we are all building together from today, through sustainable management, the efficient use of natural resources in our production systems and with actions such as these, in which we contribute to the protection and care of the environment”.
The event was attended by Patricia Abreu, executive director of Fondo Agua, together with the institution’s implementers.
MercaSID deploys efforts in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), making them its framework for action and with the desire to serve as an inspiration for others to join in building the country it wants for present and future generations.
Grupo SID, through its ReforestaSID program, carries out reforestation campaigns in different parts of the country in order to mitigate the carbon footprint and contribute to the increase of forest cover in the country. To date, this initiative has achieved the planting of more than 195,000 plants in areas near its companies.
About Fondo Agua Santo Domingo
Fondo Agua Santo Domingo is an entity created as an initiative of the Latin American Alliance of Water Funds, which also has a presence in countries such as Mexico, Colombia, Guatemala, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Peru and Brazil.
Fondo Agua Santo Domingo seeks and manages financial resources to support projects and initiatives that promote the capacity of the Haina, Nizao and Ozama river basins to generate water in quantity and quality. This entity is a reference for its innovation, transparency and technical capacity in the protection of water sources that guarantee its availability for the future.
The Dominican Institute for Quality (INDOCAL) presented this Wednesday the INDOCAL Award for quality to outstanding organizations in the development of reliable, traceable, and safe goods and services, through the use of the pillars of quality infrastructure.
The distinction was awarded thanks to the good practices we have in standardization, metrology, and conformity evaluation, criteria used by the institution to evaluate companies in each of their operations to raise standards and bet on continuous improvement.
The event was headed by the Vice President of the Republic, Raquel Peña, the Minister of Industry, Commerce and MiPymes, Víctor Bisonó, and the General Director of INDOCAL, Lorenzo Ramírez.
The INDOCAL Award is the highest distinction awarded to public and private organizations that, on the path to sustainability and competitiveness, have positioned themselves in the country with relevant use of Standardization, Metrology, and Conformity Assessment, becoming national references.
Mercasid, a Grupo SID company, was recognized by the Dominican Association of Exporters (Adoexpo) as “Great Dominican Exporter”, the highest award of the XXXVII edition of the Export Excellence Awards 2023.
The award ceremony, which exalts companies that carry the seal of national quality around the world and strive to ensure that the country, its products and services are valued as the engine of economic development and social progress, took place on Wednesday at the Embajador hotel, and was headed by Raquel Peña, vice president of the Republic and Karel Castillo, president of the board of directors of Adoexpo.
“This award is the result of the hard work of an exceptional team and MercaSID. We strive day after day to take our Dominican products to every corner of the world” expressed Roberto Bonetti Pastoriza, Corporate Vice President of Investments and Exports at Grupo SID. He also thanked all the members of the Exporters Association and especially all the co-nominees in all categories for their tireless work to promote and support the export industry in the Dominican Republic.
Bonetti Pastoriza added “This recognition is not only a reflection of our success as a company, but also of our commitment to sustainability. In these times of constant challenges we have taken the firm determination to lead not only in exports but also in the adoption of sustainable business practices. Sustainability is a fundamental part of our business philosophy that aims to generate a positive impact on our communities and the environment.
With these awards, the Dominican Association of Exporters (ADOEXPO), distinguishes those companies that have played a leading role in this sector in recent years.
ABOUT MERCASID
MercaSID was founded in 1999. Today it is the leading company in the production and distribution of oils, edible fats and cereals, as well as in the distribution of leading brands worldwide in the categories of family care, groceries and beverages.
Present in the 17 countries to which we export with our local brands with sustainable growth and a solid presence.
It is one of the largest Dominican conglomerates of manufacturing and marketing companies of mass consumption products in the Dominican Republic with more than 2,000 products under its umbrella and presence in 17 countries. Focused on creating well-being for its employees, business partners, consumers and society in general, Grupo SID is considered one of the best Dominican organizations to work for, with the highest industrial quality standards and commercial alliances with international brands and companies of worldwide prestige.
Committed to improving the welfare of society by providing products and services of the highest quality, through a sustainable business model aligned with the principles that encompass the United Nations Global Compact.
Asociación Dominicana de Exportadores, Inc. (ADOEXPO), created by Decree No. 2374 of 1972, is an institution dedicated to the defense of the export sector, promoting the necessary strategies to promote and develop Dominican exports.
