Sourcing Journal: Do Consumers Really Care About Eco-Friendly Products?

Catherine Salfino
Sourcing Journal
March 12, 2015

Judging by the effort businesses are pouring into environmental and socially conscious initiatives, one would think consumers were militant about buying eco-friendly goods. Sure, consumers care, but they’re actually more concerned with factors like fit and price. So why are companies embarking on these programs? Because at the end of the day, those who aren’t responsible risk customer wrath for violating their trust.

At Hanesbrands, Matt Hall, chief communications officer, said today’s consumers have an expectation that the companies behind the brands they shop are ethical.

“If they discover that you are not ethical or responsible in your business practices, they will stop patronizing your brands and products,” he said. “That’s why we believe that the best way to run our business is with a commitment to sustainability. We believe every product we sell benefits from the sustainable business practices that we follow, whether a product is marketed as ‘green,’ ‘sustainable’ or otherwise.”

Walmart maintains its sustainability initiatives help both people and the environment. It worked with The Sustainability Consortium to create its Sustainability Index. The data produces a scorecard for buyers that determines the most eco-friendly products based on independent scientific guidelines.

Read the full article on Sourcing Journal