Sustainability
One of the major reasons loyalty schemes are extremely popular is that they benefit both consumers and retailers.
Across demographics, especially Gen Z, sustainability is shaping purchasing decisions like never before. Research shows consumers are willing to pay more for sustainable products, and there’s strong demand for recyclable and biodegradable packaging.
These preferences are influencing categories such as home goods, beauty, and food, making sustainability a competitive differentiator rather than a compliance checkbox.
Kirstin Roberts FCIWM
Director
ESG as a strategic imperative
Retailers and brands are under pressure to embed Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles into their core strategy. This isn’t just about meeting regulatory requirements — it’s about building trust with employees, suppliers, and communities while unlocking long-term cost efficiencies. Transparency matters: regulators, consumers, job applicants, and partners all expect clear evidence of ESG values and actions. This is leading many brands e.g. the major banks, to take ESG related action on a voluntary basis and not just in order to comply with statutory obligations.
If you’re unsure where to start, speak to our Head of Sustainability, Kirstin Roberts, about our ESG Health Check tool for a quick GAP analysis.
Conscious consumerism on the rise
The cost-of-living crisis has accelerated conscious consumerism, with shoppers opting for pre-loved items, luxury rentals, and resale platforms that offer better value and sustainability. We’ve helped retailers launch initiatives to repair, reuse, resell, and recycle products. But as brands highlight their sustainability credentials, beware of greenwashing, unsubstantiated claims can lead to regulatory penalties and reputational damage.
Read article on how to shout about sustainability without risking fines.
Reduce, reuse, recycle – turning compliance into opportunity
Upcoming changes to waste and packaging obligations, including (the already here) Plastic Packaging Tax as well as incoming Extended Producer Responsibility, Deposit Return Scheme and Simpler Recycling Reforms — will reshape how retailers manage materials. These aren’t just compliance challenges; they’re opportunities to innovate and win market share by proving your commitment to a circular economy. We’re advising businesses on:
- Avoiding materials being classified as “waste” or to reclassify them as “end of waste”
- Creating income streams from waste
- Implementing customer-facing initiatives to Repair, Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle
Sustainability is now a top priority and a loyalty driver. Retailers that integrate ESG into strategy, embrace conscious consumer trends, and lead on circular practices will not only meet regulatory demands but also strengthen brand loyalty and unlock new revenue streams.
Key contact
Kirstin Roberts FCIWM
Director
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