The President of the Republic of Colombia, Iván Duque awarded, this morning, in Lisbon, the President of the Jerónimo Martins Group, Pedro Soares dos Santos, with the Order of Boyacá. This is the highest award given by the Government of the Republic of Colombia to soldiers, citizens and foreigners noteworthy for their services to the country, and whose actions have resulted in the benefit of Colombia or humankind. The recognition is due to the services provided to Colombia and the trust placed in the country.
“With his vision of a businessman with purpose, Pedro Soares dos Santos decided, more than ten years ago, to enter our country. Today there are more than 800 stores, thousands of jobs, a production chain, and with a desire to continue to multiply the stores over time”, says Iván Duque.
"I am very honoured to receive this award that recognises the collective work we are building in Colombia and the strength of Jerónimo Martins' commitment to contribute to the democratisation of quality food in the country. For me personally, it is particularly special to happen this year, when we celebrate the 230th anniversary of Jerónimo Martins. I have a great appreciation for Colombia and Colombians and I feel confident in the progress of the country to which we will continue to contribute. Since 2012 we have invested around 700 million euros in Colombia, created more than 9,500 direct jobs and today we have a commercial relationship with more than 500 Colombian suppliers, mostly SMEs. We will continue working and promoting initiatives that leverage all the Colombian potential and strengthen the industry in the country and the progress of all the territories where we are present", says Pedro Soares Dos Santos.
The attribution of the Order of Boyocá is determined by the Council of the Order of Boyacá, composed of the President of the Republic, the Ministers of Foreign Affairs and Defense and the Director General of the Protocol of the Chancellery.
The Jerónimo Martins Group opened its first Ara store in Colombia in 2013, and currently operates in more than 820 stores across the country.
