Why Sustainability Matters in Retail

In an era where environmental consciousness is no longer a choice but a necessity, sustainability has become the backbone of retail success. Today’s consumers aren’t just shopping; they’re making a statement with every purchase. They want to know that the brands they support are doing their bit for the planet. And the numbers don’t lie—74% of consumers are more likely to trust a business that can provide evidence of its environmental claims, while many are willing to pay up to 9% more for products that align with their values on sustainability.

Retailers, especially independents, are in a unique position. They have the agility to implement meaningful change, turning sustainability from a buzzword into a competitive advantage. But where to start? Let’s take inspiration from three standout brands—Spice Kitchen and VENT for Change—who are proving that small businesses can make a big impact.

What is Global Recycling Day?

Global Recycling Day, celebrated annually on 18th March, is a moment to reflect on how we manage waste and resources. Launched by the Global Recycling Foundation, it’s a call to action for businesses and individuals alike to think beyond ‘reduce, reuse, recycle’ and embrace a circular economy.

For retailers, this day isn’t just about acknowledging recycling—it’s about rethinking sustainability. How can packaging be made greener? How can supply chains be streamlined for lower emissions? How can businesses educate and empower their customers to shop more sustainably? Spice Kitchen and VENT for Change have some answers.

Spice Kitchen: A Family-Run Social Enterprise with Sustainability at Its Core

 

Spice Kitchen, a UK-based family business, is proving that sustainability isn’t just about protecting the environment—it’s about creating a business that gives back. Their initiatives span packaging, energy efficiency, waste reduction, and social responsibility.

How Spice Kitchen Leads in Sustainability

 

Packaging & Recycling:

• Signature spice tins wrapped in upcycled sari fabric, reducing textile waste and creating employment for disadvantaged seamstresses.

• Participation in composting and Single Stream Recycling programmes to minimise landfill contributions.

Energy & Resource Efficiency:

• Use of energy-efficient appliances like refrigerators, computers, and printers to lower electricity consumption.

• Fleet management system (Fleetmatics) to track delivery routes, enforce anti-idling policies, and optimise travel paths, reducing emissions.

Waste Reduction:

• Double-sided printing policies to minimise paper waste.

• Recycling of used cooking grease into biofuel, turning waste into a resource.

• Collaboration with fruit and vegetable suppliers to use ‘wonky’ produce in stocks, sauces, and salads—reducing food waste while championing imperfect ingredients.

Eco-Friendly Practices:

• Use of only environmentally friendly cleaning supplies.

• Employee incentives to use public transport, carpool, or cycle to work.

Social Responsibility:

• Partnerships with charities tackling homelessness and hunger.

• Collaboration with the Karma Curry Movement, supporting young survivors of human trafficking.

• Donation of one school meal to a child in India for every spice tin sold, via The Akshaya Patra Foundation.

  

VENT for Change: Sustainable Stationery with a Social Purpose 

VENT for Change is a UK-based sustainable stationery company that combines eco-friendly practices with social impact. Founded in 2014 by Evan Lewis, the company creates stylish stationery products while supporting children's education projects worldwide.

How VENT for Change Champions Sustainability

 

Eco-Friendly Materials:

• Notebooks and sketchbooks made from sustainably certified paper.

• Pencils created from recycled CD cases.

• Pens made from single-use plastic.

• Use of recycled materials from coffee cup fibres, citrus pulp, and other sources.

Circular Economy Initiatives:

• Recycling 180 tonnes of cardboard.

• Using recycled materials from 63,000 old fridges.

• Producing rigid ducting accessories from recycled polystyrene content of old fridges.

Waste Reduction:

• Eliminating plastic blister packs and single-use poly bags from the supply chain.
• Designing modular products to reduce plastic waste and extend product life.

Social Impact:

• Donates 5% of net sales turnover to support children's education projects worldwide.

• Runs the Ambassador for Change programme, providing free pencils to charities and volunteers working overseas.

• Launched Share a Pencil Day, a global education awareness initiative for UK schoolchildren.

• Supports the Bright Futures Campaign, raising funds for education projects run by PLAN International UK.

VENT for Change proves that sustainability in business can be both environmentally responsible and socially impactful, making it a leader in the eco-friendly stationery sector.

Take the Next Step

If you’re an independent retailer looking to make your business more sustainable, start today:

• Audit Your Packaging: Find ways to reduce plastic and excess waste.

• Partner with Ethical Suppliers: Work with manufacturers who prioritise sustainability.

• Educate Your Customers: Share your sustainability journey through social media and marketing.

• Join Industry Initiatives: Get involved with Global Recycling Day and other sustainability movements.

Be the Change

As we celebrate Global Recycling Day, let’s move beyond words and take action. Whether it’s reducing waste, upcycling materials, or giving back to communities, every small change adds up. Independent retailers are in a powerful position to lead the charge—one sustainable step at a time.

Want to see sustainability in action? Meet Spice Kitchen and VENT for Change, and many more brands at Home & Gift 2025 from 20-23 July in Harrogate and discover how these brands are paving the way for a greener future. Join us and be inspired!