‘Green’ retailers gain competitive edge

DUBAI / Emirates Business

Going green has now become a key business strategy and retailers that adopt sustainable practices in their operations will continue to harness value and gain competitive advantage, industry reports reveal.
Consumers across all demographics are increasingly becoming more eco-conscious as reflected in the Nielsen Global Survey on Corporate Social Responsibility, which found that 55% of global online consumers across 60 countries are willing to pay more for products and services provided by companies that are committed to positive social and environmental impact.
In the UAE, 44% of the country’s mid-market enterprises (MMEs) believe that sustainable business practices will contribute to better financial performance. Furthermore, the same study shows that 41% of the MMEs polled say their customers are demanding products that consider environmental and social impacts.
Jayaraman Nair, Chairman, VIS Exhibitions and Conferences, organizer of the trade show Smart Stores Expo, said, “Today’s consumers, and the society as a whole, have greater environmental awareness and they expect a deeper level of commitment from business to adopt eco-friendly policies. For the retail industry in particular, being competitive in the current landscape and remaining relevant in the future entails players to have a plan for ‘going green’ in place. This is exactly the reason why we are highlighting this in the show.”
Smart Stores Expo, scheduled on September 4 – 6 at the Dubai International Exhibition and Convention Centre, is devoted to showcasing the latest trends, developments and technologies shaping the future of retail.