Ecology as a competitive advantage: How to gain customer loyalty

Environmental awareness among consumers and interest in eco-friendly products have been steadily increasing each year, and with them, shopping preferences are evolving.

Environmental awareness among consumers and interest in eco-friendly products have been steadily increasing each year, and with them, shopping preferences are evolving. More and more people are paying attention to the products they choose and the companies they buy from. Today, a product must be produced sustainably, minimizing its negative impact on the environment, to gain favor with consumers.

In this article, we’ll explain why consumers are more inclined to purchase from eco-conscious producers, how environmental awareness influences purchasing decisions, and the importance of choosing suppliers who care about the environment. Finally, we’ll take a closer look at how Styler implements environmentally friendly practices to positively impact the planet.


The importance of ecology in consumer choices

Consumer environmental awareness is not just a passing trend but a growing movement. Research shows that more consumers are declaring a preference for eco-friendly products. According to The Economist, consumers believe that businesses share the same responsibility as governments in implementing positive environmental changes.

In a survey conducted by McKinsey & Co., 66% of respondents - and 75% of millennial respondents - stated that they consider sustainability when making a purchase.

Customers now choose brands aligned with their values. Additionally, IBM’s 2020 study revealed that nearly 6 out of 10 consumers (57%) are willing to change their purchasing habits in the future to reduce environmental impact. Moreover, 80% believe sustainable shopping is important, and 70% are willing to pay 35% more for eco-conscious brands.


Źródło: POPAI, Sustainability at Retail https://www.popai.co.uk/Uploaded/Documents/Sustainability/Sustainability-Hub/1.Sustainability-WP-Nov2020_final.pdf


Why do consumers choose eco-friendly products?

1. Why do consumers choose eco-friendly products?Eco-friendly products are often perceived as healthier and safer for both people and the environment. Consumers avoid chemicals and synthetic additives that can be harmful. 

2. Awareness of global issuesClimate change, environmental pollution, and species extinction are regularly featured in the media. Consumers understand that their purchasing choices have a global environmental impact.

3. Values and beliefsMore people are identifying with values related to environmental protection. Buying eco-friendly products allows them to express their beliefs and values.


4. Social responsibilityConsumers expect companies to be socially and environmentally responsible. By choosing certified products, they contribute to environmental protection.



The impact of eco-marketing on consumer choices

Consumers increasingly look at the values a brand represents before deciding to make a purchase. The rise in environmental awareness plays a key role in shaping consumer decisions. Companies that successfully integrate these values into their marketing strategies gain customer trust and loyalty.

Partnering with suppliers committed to environmental protection should be a key criterion for businesses looking to build an eco-responsible image.


Eco-friendly customer choices as the key to business success

1. Increased customer loyalty and trust - Consumers are more loyal to brands that share their values. Stores offering eco-friendly products can enjoy greater customer trust, which benefits business growth.


2. Boosting sales - Eco-friendly products are often seen as higher quality, leading to increased sales. Consumers are willing to pay higher prices, knowing the product’s sustainable origin.


3. Creating a positive image - Businesses that promote sustainable practices can build a positive image and stand out from the competition.


4. Social responsibility Working with eco-conscious suppliers helps businesses fulfill their social responsibility and contribute to environmental protection.


5. Changing shopping behaviors - Growing environmental awareness influences consumer behavior. Customers are now more mindful of product origins and environmental impact, consciously opting for eco-friendly products.



How Styler responds to environmental challenges and protects nature

Styler is a prime example of a Polish company actively committed to the environment. Styler has introduced numerous initiatives to minimize its negative impact on the planet, reflected in both its product range and eco-friendly practices aimed at promoting sustainable development on a local level.


FSC Certification

Styler holds FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certification, an international non-profit organization that sets standards for responsible forest management, ensuring products come from sustainably managed forests.


MDF frames

Styler uses MDF frames, a sustainable alternative to solid wood that offers greater durability and ease of processing, making it an eco-friendly choice in home decor.


Glass

The glass used by Styler is one of the most recyclable materials, able to be processed multiple times without losing quality, reducing waste and conserving natural resources.


Synthetic felt

Styler's products are made from synthetic felt, 50% of which comes from recycled polyester fibers sourced from PET bottles, helping reduce the amount of plastic waste.


Eco-friendly mirrors

Styler produces eco-friendly mirrors without harmful components such as copper, lead, and organic solvents, making the production process less harmful to the environment.


Eco packaging

Styler's unit packaging and bulk boxes are made from 100% recycled materials, and the prints are done with eco-friendly water-based inks, further reducing their environmental impact.


Inks

The company uses water-based inks designed with sustainability in mind, reflecting Styler’s commitment to eco-friendly production.


Machinery

Styler invests in cutting-edge, eco-certified machinery, such as those with EPEAT® Gold certification, reducing energy consumption and harmful emissions.


Conclusion

Environmental awareness among consumers has a tremendous impact on their purchasing decisions. People are increasingly paying attention to the products they buy and where they come from. Companies that prioritize the environment gain customer loyalty, increase sales, and build a positive image. For businesses in the home decor industry, choosing environmentally responsible suppliers can attract eco-conscious customers and stand out from the competition.

Styler, with its eco-friendly practices, is a prime example of a company that successfully combines business success with environmental care.


Sources:

The Economist, An EcoWakening_Measuring awareness, engagement and action for nature, https://f.hubspotusercontent20.net/hubfs/4783129/An%20EcoWakening_Measuring%20awareness, %20engagement%20and%20action%20for%20nature_FINAL_MAY%202021%20(1).pdf?__hstc=130722960.ecb206528da823f5ba86141aa6e8eac6.1642377481532.1642377481532.1642377481532.1&_ _hssc=130722960.1.1642377481533&__hsfp=2719519617&hsCtaTracking=96a022a5-8be1-44ee-82fcced6164b8590%7C0c8892b7-4e13-464f-9b50-75e692c189ef 

Accenture, More than Half of Consumers Would Pay More for Sustainable Products Designed to Be Reused or Recycled, Accenture

Survey Finds, https://newsroom.accenture.com/news/2019/more-than-half-of-consumers-would-pay-more-for-sustainableproducts-designed-to-be-reused-or-recycled-accenture-survey-finds

POPAI, Sustainability at Retail, https://www.popai.co.uk/Uploaded/Documents/Sustainability/Sustainability-Hub/1.Sustainability-WP-Nov2020_final.pdf

MC Kinsey Company, The State of Fashion 2020, https://www.mckinsey.com/~/media/mckinsey/industries/retail/our%20insights/the%20state%20of%20fashion %202020%20navigating%20uncertainty/the-state-of-fashion-2020-final.pdf 


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