Sustainability is now an essential part of the retail experience. More than half of UK consumers have a preference for companies that are actively improving their carbon footprint, with many celebrating brands that reduce or eliminate plastic pollution from their manufacturing. Customers have historically sought to align themselves with brands that suit their lifestyle and preferred aesthetic but, now, in the wake of a shifting climate, they are seeking out retailers that complement their environmental conscientiousness too.
Such a shift in consumer thinking is also reflected through online conversations with an estimated 53% of customers likely to share online opinions of brands that they feel fall short on social issues. As such, retailers must act accordingly if they are to achieve high street success.
It is, however, not only products themselves that must be emblematic of environmental considerations but a store’s design too. Being placed upon the high street, a retailer’s presence must demonstrate eco-conscientiousness to both satisfy customers, attract new footfall, and outshine the competition. But, how does a retailer accomplish this feat?
There are a number of ways in which a retailer can create a shopping space that is rooted in positive environmental and sustainable practices. The components of retail furniture, sign fittings, and shop shelves can, for example, be ethically and sustainably sourced. This means that they are created with the environment in mind, manufactured and shipped accordingly. Our team has seen a significant increase in demand for such products and are pleased to share that we continue to improve our sustainable practices, sourcing from ethical manufacturers.
By ensuring that shop fittings and furniture are sourced sustainably, retailers lay the foundations for an eco-friendly atmosphere where the ethical value of products are elevated by the very platforms that display them. Additionally, products and brands that put forward their sustainable practices can be quickly undermined if their displays do not echo the same considerations.
Materials used within stores can also be green. Woods, for example, are far preferable to plastics and some brands do well to work them into their store’s design. Others opt for LED lighting, which is far more energy-efficient than alternatives. Such decisions tell of a brand’s ethical and environmental intentions by creating an atmosphere, without the need to overtly advertise the action they’re taking.
Other more behind the scene’s characteristics of a store’s design also have the opportunity to share sustainability. Apple, for example, are noted for displaying the carbon footprint of their stores, even stating in shop displays that certain stores are powered with 100% sustainable energy. Such statements may not directly advertise a specific product but they do exceptionally well to encourage shoppers to support their business.
As time goes on, more stores are striving to achieve improved sustainability, driven in large part by customer demand. If you’d like to learn more about the products we offer that can support an environmentally friendly store design, please contact a member of our team by emailing sales@crowndisplay.co.uk or by calling 0800 587 5880.
