Trends

Ways to show customers you’re serious about sustainability

A new report from CGA by NielsenIQ and UKHospitality shows consumers are taking your business’ commitment to sustainability into account more and more when deciding to dine out or order in. In fact a UK survey found 83 per cent of participants expected hospitality brands to take part in sustainable practices, and 41 per cent said they’d be willing to pay more for sustainable dining.

2 MIN READ 06 Feb 2023
sustainability signage

KEY INSIGHTS

  • Customers want to know they’re dining at a venue which operates in an environmentally responsible and ethical manner
  • Let your customers know about your sustainability actions
  • Once you’ve identified the ways in which your business supports recycling and sustainability, we offer some suggestions on how to show customers you’re serious about it

A new report from CGA by NielsenIQ and UKHospitality shows consumers are taking your business’ commitment to sustainability into account more and more when deciding to dine out or order in. In fact a UK survey found 83 per cent of participants expected hospitality brands to take part in sustainable practices, and 41 per cent said they’d be willing to pay more for sustainable dining.

That’s why it makes sense to showcase your commitment to recycling as part of your overall sustainability commitment – which may also include your choice of ingredients, use of free range and pesticide free produce, and sustainably produced vegies and fruit.

Many customers report a ‘feelgood factor’ influences their choice of which foodservice business to frequent – they want to know they’re supporting a venue which operates in an environmentally responsible and ethical manner. This kind of customer goodwill can be extremely valuable in generating repeat business.

So, it’s beneficial inform your customers about your recycling initiatives. There are numerous ways you can make your business more sustainable: from choosing recyclable/recycled material wherever possible, to getting involved in recycling schemes, donating unused food to charities, using leftover ingredients in menu specials, and conducting regular food waste audits.

Once you’ve identified the ways in which your business supports recycling and sustainability, you can show your customers you’re serious by:

·       Putting links to all recycling schemes and food charities you’re involved with on your social media feeds and actively promote their value to customers

·       Get involved with local community-based recycling and sustainability initiatives – be part of the public conversation, as a conscientious member of the business community

·       Ask for copies of any publicity materials from initiatives you’re involved in and display these in-store

·       Showcase recyclability/recycled materials on your packaging (eg pizza boxes) through the use of relevant logos/symbols

·       Highlight on the menu where possible

·       Let your customers know that the Australian Government has set the ambitious target of making all packaging recyclable, compostable or reusable by 2025 
and that you are playing your part to contribute towards a cleaner, greener future

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