Consumer awareness around the environmental impact of purchasing decisions continues to grow. 92% of shoppers say sustainability is an important factor when choosing a brand. Adapting your business’ retail packaging offerings to align with consumer values is not only key to retaining current customers, but gaining new ones.
Let’s Be Clear. Transparency Matters.
 Legislation in recent years has made regulations around sustainable products more stringent with little tolerance for ‘greenwashing’. In a recent survey, over 77% of consumers stated they would stop buying from a brand they perceive is not taking sustainability seriously, or is making false sustainability claims.
Customers also want assurances that products meet or exceed sustainability guidelines, with 45% of consumers listing responsible sourcing as one of the most important sustainability claims. Ensuring the environmental benefits of products clearly and accurately communicated to consumers plays an important role in their brand choice.
Quality is Key
 Unfortunately, consumers aren’t always confident in the performance of sustainable packaging alternatives. We’ve all been there – a soggy takeout box, a disintegrating paper straw, a flimsy paper bag. Quality and efficacy are major drivers in purchasing habits, with 1 out of 3 consumers stating they’re unlikely to purchase products in sustainable packaging if it doesn’t offer the same quality as non-sustainable packaging alternatives.
Sustainability Beyond the Products
 Apart from supplying responsibly sourced, high-performing sustainable packaging, there are steps you can take to further gain customer trust 44% of consumers are likely to choose a particular retailer if they incentivize recycling/waste reduction. Clear communication of your business’ sustainable efforts outside of product packaging sends a clear message that sustainability is more than a business play – it’s part of your culture as an organization.
Show your customers a commitment to meeting and exceeding their expectations for leadership in sustainability. Reach out to your Bunzl representative to learn how you can easily transition to industry-leading, sustainable alternatives today.
