Pepper celebrates 21st with tree-planting initiative

Pepper Money has said that it will create a total of seven hectares of native protected forest across Australia, New Zealand and the Philippines, as it plants 21 trees for every employee in celebration of its 21st year of business.

Founded in 2000 “to provide innovative home loan solutions to customers that were underserved by traditional lenders”, the lender has since expanded its offering to include asset finance, commercial mortgages and personal loans.

The non-bank has said a seedling nursery will also be created as part of the sustainability initiative.

It is partnering with Green Fleet in Australia, Trees that Count in New Zealand, and the Haribon Foundation in the Philippines to achieve its tree-planting goal.

According to the lender, once complete, the native trees and seedlings will cover the equivalent of seven rugby fields.

Commenting on the initiative, Pepper Money’s CEO for Australia and New Zealand, Mario Rehayem said: “It’s not every day you turn 21. So, to mark the occasion, we wanted to do something special that addresses an unmet need in our community, and creates a legacy for our people, our customers and our partners.  

“To be able to celebrate 21 years in business is notable. It simply could not have been achieved without the contribution of everyone who has enabled our success.”

He added: “It’s not just our current and past employees who deserve recognition, it also includes the many mortgage brokers, motor dealers and introducers who have entrusted their customers to us over the years. This investment in our future is for each of you – thank you,” Mr Rehayem concluded.

Find out more about Pepper Money in the Mortgage and Finance Leader podcast:

[Related: Pepper enters Japanese market]