PrintIT Reseller - issue 67

light sensors, LED lighting and electric vehicle charging to encourage employees to travel sustainably. Internally, we have developed online e-learning training courses for employees, to give them all the skills needed to champion sustainability in their teams and departments. “Our products also reflect our CSR commitment, and we are constantly on the lookout for innovative approaches. Epson has developed the first ever in- office paper recycling machine, PaperLab, which combines three processes to turn used paper into new, using a dry process. “Our approach to CSR also extends beyond our walls, we ensure we work with green partners so that our supply chain also has a reduced environmental footprint. Our sales teams lead with eco messaging, and we’re seeing that our channel partners and end-users are becoming increasingly environmentally- conscious as a result. This has inspired us to also provide educational training for our resellers on sustainability, to help them also meet the growing customer demand in this area.” Lars Hargaard: “In the current climate it can be to some extent, but it is probably more of a showstopper. If you don’t meet certain criteria, you are not allowed to bid for tenders etc.” Jeremy Spencer: “When we started the Carbon Zero scheme, it was definitely a differentiator as we were the first to undertake such an initiative. For the wider industry, environmental concerns perhaps fell to one side in the immediate years after the financial crisis, but they have certainly returned now. So, as a pioneer, it remains a clear competitive advantage for Toshiba – although I have to say we would be doing what we do anyway now, because we believe so strongly in the ethos behind it.” Carlo Longhi: “Combatting climate change – at a consumer and political level – has been high on the UK news agenda over the past several years. The focus is now turning towards corporate organisations who are increasingly being called on to lead the charge. In fact, a recent report revealed that 66 per cent of consumers are willing to spend more on a product if it comes from a sustainable brand, making sustainability business- critical. “Development of sustainable practices lends itself to operational efficiencies that streamline work processes and conserves resources, which in turn enhances employee productivity and reduces cost. What’s more, being known as a sustainable business can attract investors, as well as a talented workforce. People want to be associated with the positive, and if you can showcase your company’s sustainable choices, you can attract the calibre of people whom you wish to employ. “Ultimately, embedding sustainability into your business shouldn’t be seen as a trade-off between good citizenship and maximising profits. Making sustainable investments in the short-term can translate into long-term financial benefits that can actually boost your bottom line.” Trevor Northfield: “This is a growing hot topic and the environmental performance of our products and services is now critical to secure tenders. We are mindful to emphasise our capabilities in this area as this can be essential to securing new business and retaining customers too. “The business we pitch for invariably incorporate a points system that includes a sustainability section, or at least this is a major consideration for customers. Trends over the past few years have led to deficiency in this area potentially being the difference in securing a sale.” Gemmer Crozier: “There is no longer any question over whether good environmental performance, as well as high ethical standards in every other aspect of CSR, provide a commercial advantage – it absolutely does. “We know that it is a key factor in both consumer and business decision- making and transparency around supply chains and ethical practices has become a major selling point. We offer all of our customers a free recycling service for all of their print toners. This offers them complete transparency on where their waste ends up, something that customers are increasingly demanding as part of their procurement processes. It helps them to be more sustainable, which they can then show to their partners and customers.” James Pittick: “A strong environmental performance helps to create value and brand differentiation, which in turn drives product innovation. By committing to environmental performance, you can reduce reputational and regulatory risk; waste and inefficiency; and minimise the environmental impact of the products. Fundamentally, operating in an environmentally aware manner can also reduce cost, creating a leaner and more competitive business. “Society as a whole is highly engaged and conscious about sustainability issues and purpose. Translating this into the workforce, partners will improve talent attraction and staff retention by demonstrating their commitment to environmental principals. A greener business is a more attractive business. Having these commitments can improve customer engagement and sales, helping partners win and retain business. “Some customers request partners have certain accreditations (for example, ISO 14001) before they’re invited to join the bidding process. If a partner does not have this certification, or other similar sustainability accreditations, they could A strong environmental performance helps to create value and brand differentiation, which in turn drives product innovation PRINT IT RESELLER.UK 43 VOX POP PrintIT Reseller: Do you consider strong environmental performance to be a valuable source of competitive advantage? continued... Jeremy Spencer When we started the Carbon Zero scheme, it was definitely a differentiator as we were the first to undertake such an initiative