Across industries like food, pharmaceuticals, and safety materials, it is essential to keep product legal information up to date. Failing to comply with these regulations can lead to severe penalties, such as fines, product recalls, and even legal action. In some cases, non-compliance can result in restrictions on product distribution or complete removal from the market, impacting a company’s bottom line and reputation.

Within this product record, legal notices (or “storing legal notices”) are particularly important as they encompass documents like safety data sheets or quality certifications, which must be centralized, current, and easy to manage. This is where Akeneo comes into play: the AI-powered product data solution enables efficient management of these notices through connectors and integrations with DAM (Digital Asset Management) tools.

What Exactly is Storing Legal Notices in Akeneo?

Storing legal notices in Akeneo involves integrating all these regulatory documents (such as technical data sheets or certificates of compliance) into specific asset families within Akeneo’s Asset Manager. These documents are seamlessly imported into Akeneo and associated with specific products using a DAM connector, ensuring assured traceability and guaranteed legal compliance.

At O2 Commerce, we have successfully implemented these best practices for various clients, such as Peavey Industries, which specializes in products for agriculture, farming, and rural living, and Stemcell, an industry leader in life sciences who uses asset families such as “Safety Data Sheet” and “Product Information Sheet” in Akeneo to organize and manage its product safety documents.

How to Validate and Update Legal Notices?

A primary challenge is keeping these documents consistently up to date. Akeneo, via a connector, allows for the automation of document validation and updates. For instance, if a notice expires after three months, the system can deactivate the product in Akeneo while keeping the document in the DAM for tracking or auditing. This connector regularly checks the validity of the documents and directly pushes updates into Akeneo.This automation is incredibly useful in sectors where updates are frequent, such as for products with regularly changing compositions. Depending on needs, the connector can perform these checks multiple times a day or at a more suitable frequency.

Optimizing the Quality of Product Information

One of Akeneo’s strengths is its ability to assess the completeness and quality of product information. When an asset is imported, it can be enriched with metadata (such as a “meta title” or “meta description”) to enhance the user experience. Using a completeness score, Akeneo helps businesses ensure that all critical information, like the validity dates of notices, is correctly filled out.
If a validity date is not filled in a legal notice, Akeneo will degrade the product’s score, signaling a lack of completeness, which allows product managers to prioritize updates of missing or outdated information.

Some Best Practices for Managing Legal Notices in Akeneo:

• Use integrated DAM connectors: A well-configured connector can automatically push documents from the DAM to Akeneo while checking expiration dates and document relevance.
• Automate validations: Create business rules to automatically invalidate or reactivate documents based on their validity.
• Manage user permissions: Ensure that only authorized individuals can modify or invalidate critical documents.
• Monitor information completeness: Use Akeneo’s scores to regularly track the status of notices and ensure that all essential information is complete.

By centralizing everything in Akeneo, you automate updates and ensure regulatory compliance for your products. Although the connector handles most of the tasks, you remain in control of your data, with a customizable solution tailored to your needs.

Predicting the future is a bit like trying to pick the winning lottery numbers or predicting how long it’ll be before you regret that new haircut. It’s an unpredictable science based on gut feeling and ceremonial lucky charms.

But when it comes to retail, we can take a look at today’s customer behavior and it’s not too hard to forecast what 2025 might look like, no tarot cards required. 

From the, perhaps surprising, resurgence of in-store shopping to the not-so shocking rise in concern for our planet, some patterns are already taking shape. . So, grab your crystal ball (or maybe just a cup of coffee), and let’s dive into our predictions of the top five trends that will define the retail world in 2025.

1. In-person shopping is back

Yes, eCommerce had its glow-up during the pandemic—who didn’t love the convenience of browsing from bed? But as it turns out, people miss the human connection of in-store shopping; 93% of consumers in a recent survey said that they were planning to do both online and in-person shopping this holiday season.

So why are more folks popping back into physical stores? While I’m sure many introverts will disagree, the fact is that people like talking to people, especially knowledgeable sales associates who can help them find the exact product they need without having to weed through three rounds of an AI-powered customer support chatbot. Sometimes, speaking to a real person or just simply seeing and touching the product can answer questions faster and easier than any description or robot ever could.

There’s also a growing sentiment of “buy local,” with consumers consciously choosing to support small businesses. Plus, reducing their carbon footprint by skipping international shipping? It’s a win-win for the environmentally conscious shopper.

2. Brand trust & transparency is top of mind for consumers

It’s hard for smaller brands to stand out against giants like Amazon and Temu, who often win by offering unbeatable convenience and low prices; Amazon’s vast inventory and Prime shipping make it nearly irresistible for those who want something fast, while Temu appeals with its rock-bottom prices that are hard to compete with. When shoppers can get what they need quickly and cheaply, brands need to offer something different to keep their attention—and that’s where trust and transparency come in.

To build trust, brands need to be upfront and authentic about their products. Today’s shoppers are more discerning than ever; they want to know exactly what they’re buying, where it comes from, and how it’s made. 

Brands that share details on ingredients, manufacturing practices, and supply chains appeal to consumers’ desire for honesty. Whether it’s disclosing sustainable sourcing methods or offering transparency about labor practices, consumers appreciate brands that are real about what they’re putting on the shelves.

Another way to foster trust is by encouraging user-generated content (UGC). Again, people trust people, and seeing real customers share their experiences with a product can be far more persuasive than a polished marketing pitch. A five-star review, a snapshot of someone wearing that jacket in real life, or a testimonial from a happy customer creates an authentic connection. Brands that actively encourage community engagement through UGC—whether it’s customer photos, reviews, or stories—build a sense of community and transparency that today’s shoppers demand.

3.  Green is in fashion

Yes, “sustainability” has been in the retail lexicon for years now, but in 2025, it’s less of a trend and more of a dealbreaker for many consumers. Consumers are demanding greener products and practices, and many are even willing to pay extra for it; despite an overall trend towards more cautious spending, we found that nearly 60% of U.S. millennial consumers would pay a premium for a product if it was sustainably sourced.v

The holiday season brings a whirlwind of shopping excitement—and with it, an avalanche of returns. From that sweater two sizes too small to the gadget that seemed like a good idea at 2 a.m., consumers want returns to be free, fast, and hassle-free. 

But here’s the coal hidden in the stocking: returns are a costly gift for retailers, wrapped in layers of logistics, labor, and environmental impact. And let’s face it, it’s not exactly delightful for customers either—nobody wants to stand in line or deal with the fine print just to get their money back.

From the alarming surge of carbon emissions brought by shipping containers, to the vast number of discarded products piling up in landfills, the environment also suffers from the toll of returns.

But despite these negativities, we still see 67% of eCommerce customers acting as ‘serial returners’ who buy large amounts of products with the intention of returning a portion. Returns are unavoidable for businesses but that doesn’t mean they have to be accepted. Brands can combat this harmful practice by implementing different methods to minimize their return rates.

4 Ways to Minimize Holiday Returns

1. Ensure accurate product information

When customers constantly repeatedly receive inaccurate product information, frustration is inevitable. In fact, it’s been reported that 75% of customers claim their reasons for returning items are due to dissatisfaction with a brand’s inconsistent sizing. Incorrect specifications, such as sizing, lead to disappointment as customers put their trust in a brand but don’t receive the expected result. By ensuring that their product information is accurate and consistent, businesses can reduce the risk of returns and maintain a steady number of customers.

Providing accurate information lowers return rates by ensuring customers have clear expectations about their orders. However, it’s a hard task to transfer and display product information to customers manually.  An easy way to do this at scale is to leverage Akeneo Activation to map and transform your enriched product data to the requirements of each retailer and marketplace, ensuring accurate and complete information for each channel your consumers browse through.

It’s vital for product descriptions to be shown across all channels such as eCommerce sites, brick-and-mortar locations, and social media platforms. However, while having data displayed across all channels is essential for businesses, having accurate data shown is more important. Akeneo supports this with our activation solution that ensures consistent product data is syndicated to the right channels, allowing customers to receive accurate information no matter what platform they’re on, lessening the chances of them returning any products. 

Think about the last time you bought something online. 

Maybe you discovered the item while scrolling through TikTok, then went to Amazon to scroll through some images and browse some customer reviews before ultimately heading directly to their eCommerce site to purchase the product and pick it up at the big box retailer down the road from you.

Now, imagine you’re in charge of a company and you’re looking to purchase industrial equipment or raw materials for manufacturing. You’d expect the purchasing process to look a bit  different, right? 

While B2C is often characterized as spontaneous and driven by quick decisions, B2B purchasing is typically a more complex and deliberate process that involves multiple stakeholders, thorough research, and a formal approval process. Each step is scrutinized because the stakes are higher – the equipment or materials you choose directly impact your company’s productivity, safety standards, and bottom line.

Because of this, B2B sales have historically relied heavily on in-person meetings, printed catalogs, and phone calls with knowledgeable sales reps. Yet B2B buyers today aren’t just decision-makers at work; they’re also consumers accustomed to those digital, omnichannel experiences in their personal lives. They shop for groceries online, buy clothes with a few taps, and rely on personalized recommendations through digital means, and they’re beginning to  expect similar convenience in their professional buying experiences. 

Today, nearly 85% of B2B companies have some digital sales strategy in place, and 90% plan to ramp up their digital sales efforts in the next two years, especially among larger enterprises.

This shift toward a B2C-like experience is essential as the industry faces new demands and challenges. Let’s take a closer look at what’s fueling this change—and how AI is helping B2B companies meet the moment.

The State of B2B

The traditional B2B buying process is often a lengthy, structured journey that involves multiple stages and decision-makers. It typically begins with identifying a business need or problem, which prompts a team to start researching potential solutions. This research phase is meticulous, as B2B buyers aim to find options that align with their company’s goals, budget, and requirements. 

After initial research, the team narrows down potential vendors and seeks detailed information through consultations, product demos, and sometimes trial periods. Throughout this process, various stakeholders—such as procurement, finance, IT, and end-users—may have specific needs and influence over the final decision. 

Once all evaluations are completed and a preferred vendor is identified, negotiations around price, contract terms, and customization often ensue before the formal purchase and onboarding processes are carried out, and the relationship often continues post-purchase to typically include ongoing support, feedback, and sometimes renegotiation. This complex, multi-layered process is designed to reduce risk and ensure long-term value for the organization.

For decades, this approach worked well because buyers relied on seasoned sales reps to help them navigate complex product specifications and make informed purchases. Detailed print catalogs and in-person interactions were the norm, but today’s B2B buyers want the speed and convenience they get from B2C retailers. After all, they’re shopping in their personal lives on platforms that are intuitive, personalized, and highly responsive. So, when they switch to the role of a professional buyer, they’re expecting the same level of ease and customization.

Transitioning to digital as a B2B organization, however, isn’t as simple as flipping a switch. One of the biggest hurdles these companies face is handling vast amounts of product information. Unlike B2C, where products are often simple and straightforward, B2B products tend to be highly specialized and complex; imagine managing product data for thousands of industrial components, each with unique specifications, usage instructions, and compatibility details. Keeping all that information organized, up-to-date, and accessible across multiple platforms is no small feat.

Our recent survey of B2B business leaders found that 99% reported facing at least one major product information challenge. These issues range from missing data fields to inconsistent product descriptions across platforms to outdated technical details in product catalogs. The sheer volume and complexity of B2B product data make it nearly impossible for human teams alone to manage effectively. 

And here’s where technology, specifically AI, can make a meaningful impact.

Most of us have experienced moments where we’ve tossed an item after its use or misplaced it and quickly bought a replacement. It’s a common habit, often tucked away as an afterthought.

If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone.

While it may feel harmless in the moment, the reality is that these patterns can have lasting consequences when they become routine. Small habits, like frequently replacing or discarding items, contribute to a culture of reckless consumerism—a mindset that amplifies waste and poses serious risks to both people and the environment.

Fast fashion perfectly embodies this disposable culture. Its name reflects the rapid production and distribution of trendy clothing sold at low prices, making it easier for consumers to purchase and discard their old ones. The accelerated changes in the global industry are driven to meet consumer demand, failing to show a regard for quality but instead prioritizing quantity. According to Business Insider, the fashion industry consists of 10% of global carbon emissions, and microplastics are predicted to make up to 31% of plastic pollution in the ocean.

Along with fast fashion, ‘serial returners’ also ramp up overconsumption. The witty term refers to customers who purposefully buy more products than they need with the aim of returning a number of them. Besides mounting more waste, this practice contributes to raising emissions as sending back products requires more transportation, which doubles the amount of Co2 emissions. 

So what is the solution to this overarching problem?

The circular economy! This economic structure helps victims of excessive materialism by reducing damage to the environment and providing customers with a place to purchase second-hand, high quality products.

What is the Circular Economy?

The circular economy refers to a business model that aims to minimize waste by reusing, repairing, refurbishing, and recycling products, materials, and resources. It contrasts against the traditional linear economy, which promotes the taking, making, and disposing of products.

At its heart, the circular economy redefines our approach to consumption and production, making it more sustainable and mindful of the planet’s resources. This framework is built on three guiding principles that work together to drive positive change:

1. Eliminate waste and pollution

The circular economy turns the traditional model on its head by focusing on designing products and systems that maximize resource use and minimize waste from the outset.

It combats the flaw of the linear system in which products are designed in a way that they can’t be recycled or reused, forcing the end of their journey to be disposed of as waste.

2. Circulate products and materials

In a circular economy, products are designed for durability, reuse, and recycling to keep them circulating within the economy rather than ending up directly in a landfill. This could be done through business models that focus on sharing a product between many users, or a refurbishment service dedicated to sprucing up old items. Companies and consumers alike benefit from this principle, as it supports sustainable business practices while fostering more responsible consumer habits and ensuring consumers are getting the most out of a product that they pay for. 

3. Regenerate nature

A truly circular economy not only seeks to minimize harm but actively works to improve the environment. By integrating nature-focused practices into product and consumption cycles, like using renewable energy in manufacturing processes or contributing to organizations that offset carbon emissions, organizations can build a system that sustains both people and the planet without sacrificing product quality.

Though the law now works to safeguard vulnerable individuals, its genesis is rooted in a truly tragic event. Natasha Ednan-Laperouse, a young woman with a severe sesame allergy, suffered a fatal allergic reaction after consuming a baguette purchased from a local food chain that contained sesame seeds but failed to mention the presence of an allergen on the packaging.

Prior to this event, businesses did not have to individually label full ingredient lists onto freshly made and pre-packaged foods in the UK. Though a heartbreaking event, Natasha’s passing illuminated a significant gap in food labeling regulations, and led to the introduction and enactment of what is now known as Natasha’s Law. 

What is Natasha’s Law?

Natasha’s Law increased food labeling regulations, requiring that full ingredient and allergen labeling be included on pre-packaged for direct sale (PPDS) food. Specifically, allergens must be highlighted on the label, making them easy to spot. By putting these regulations in place, the law seeks to arm consumers with all of the necessary information to make safe and informed choices, reducing the risk of adverse health effects caused by undisclosed ingredients.

What is PPDS food? 

PPDS stands for pre-packaged for direct sale, and refers to foods that are packaged at the same place they are sold to consumers and are in this packaging before being ordered. These foods are prepared on-site, ahead of time, and packaged ready for sale. 

PPDS food can cover a wide range of items, such as sandwiches prepared on-site and packaged for sale, boxed salads in refrigerated units, or bakery items like muffins, cookies, or breads pre-packaged in the store. Essentially, if the food is packaged on-location before a customer orders it, it’s considered PPDS food.

Who’s affected by Natasha’s Law? 

Primarily, Natasha’s Law impacts food manufacturers, retailers, and brands in the UK.

• Food manufacturers: Prior to the law, manufacturers were not required to list full ingredients on PPDS food. Now, manufacturers must have detailed systems in place to accurately label all ingredients and allergens on their pre-packaged food. Not only does this involve a careful audit of all ingredients, but it also means that manufacturers need to keep these records up-to-date and accurate in the event of any changes to their products’ ingredients. Failure to comply has major consequences, including significant fines.
• Retailers: Retailers of all sizes, from large supermarkets to small corner shops, cafes, and even vending businesses that sell PPDS food must comply with Natasha’s Law. This means retailers must closely collaborate with their suppliers to ensure that the information they receive is accurate and up-to-date. Having the right tools in place to gather and organize this information from suppliers is critical. 
• Brands: Brands in the food sector also need to ensure that any pre-packaged foods they produce are fully compliant with Natasha’s Law.

Essentially, any food business that prepares and sells prepackaged food directly to consumers in the UK is affected by Natasha’s Law.

What’s required by Natasha’s Law?

Natasha’s Law requires full ingredient and allergen labeling on all PPDS foods. This means every ingredient used in the food must be listed, and the 14 allergens specified by the EU Food Information for Consumers Regulation must be highlighted in some way, such as with bolded, italicized, or differently colored text. The 14 allergens that must be emphasized are:

• Celery
• Cereals containing gluten (e.g. barley and oats)
• Crustaceans (e.g. prawns, crabs and lobsters)
• Eggs
• Fish
• Lupin
• Milk
• Molluscs (e.g. mussels and oysters)
• Mustard
• Peanuts
• Sesame
• Soybeans
• Sulfur dioxide and sulphites (if they are concentrated at more than ten parts per million)
• Tree nuts (e.g. almonds, hazelnuts, walnuts, brazil nuts, cashews, etc.)

Utilize PIM to Ensure Compliance with Natasha’s Law

Managing complex ingredient lists and allergen data across a variety of pre-packaged products can be incredibly difficult, but it’s crucial for businesses to successfully do so, not just for compliance with Natasha’s Law, but for the safety of consumers.

That’s where a Product Information Management (PIM) solution can help. PIM systems act as a central hub for all product data, providing a single source of truth for businesses. They allow you to manage, organize, update, and distribute large amounts of data across a variety of products quickly, easily, and accurately, which makes a PIM system the perfect tool for Natasha’s Law compliance. Businesses can easily record every ingredient for every product, as well as any allergens they may contain. The system can even be configured to automatically highlight the 14 required allergens, reducing the burden on product teams while also ensuring they’re clearly flagged for consumers.

A PIM system also helps with accuracy. Recipes often change, whether because of a new supplier, reformulation, supply chain shortages, or a myriad of other causes. Whenever an ingredient changes, that information can be updated in the PIM system and quickly reflected across all products. This eliminates the need for manual updates, reducing the risk of errors which could have serious consequences.

For retailers working with a variety of suppliers, a PIM system can seriously reduce workload, errors, and time spent chasing critical ingredient information. Suppliers can provide their product data in a format that can be easily imported into your PIM system. This allows you to manage all product data centrally, ensure it’s compliant, and distribute it quickly and efficiently to all necessary channels.

While Natasha’s Law introduces stricter regulations for food manufacturers, retailers, and brands, it’s a crucial step in protecting consumers and providing them with the information they need to make safe choices. Centralizing product information into a PIM allows businesses to comply with Natasha’s Law without requiring a significant investment in new resources or increasing the workload on existing product information teams. By understanding the law and leveraging the right tools, businesses can ensure compliance, reduce risks, and most importantly, safeguard their customers’ health. 

There are only a handful of indisputable facts in our universe:

The Earth orbits the sun, energy cannot be created or destroyed, and the COVID-19 pandemic caused a massive boost in eCommerce. 

Overall eCommerce revenue grew nearly 20% in 2020 after the pandemic hit the globe, and a study done at Adobe found that revenue from online sales jumped up by $52 billion in the months following the initial lockdown orders.

However, as the world has opened back up in the past few years, we’re seeing a recalibration in consumer habits. A recent survey conducted here by Akeneo showed that 93% of shoppers plan to mix both online and in-store shopping experiences this holiday season, pointing to a new normal: hybrid shopping. 

This trend is especially prominent among Gen Z, with 64% of Gen Z shoppers preferring to shop in physical stores rather than online. Why, after such a heavy shift toward digital, are people now gravitating back to in-person experiences? The answer lies in the value of experience, human connection, and a desire for community impact.

Why Shoppers are Returning to In-Person Experiences

The popularity of eCommerce is due, in large part, to the convenience it can offer; the ability to browse, click, and buy without leaving home opened up a world of ease that proved essential for when people weren’t leaving their homes for days or even weeks at a time. 

Yet, as online shopping becomes widely accessible, convenience becomes less of a differentiator.  With most businesses able to facilitate convenient online purchasing, customers are increasingly looking beyond ease of access when deciding where to spend their money. Instead, they seek differentiated shopping experiences that align with their values, preferences, and expectations.

Plus, many consumers simply crave that human connection. While algorithms and virtual assistants have made online shopping efficient, they lack the warmth and personalization that an in-store expert can offer. Many consumers miss the ability to ask a knowledgeable associate about a product, test items firsthand, or simply enjoy the sensory experience of shopping in a physical environment. A digital recommendation engine can suggest products based on past purchases, but it doesn’t replace the trust that comes from speaking directly to a real person.

In-person shopping also supports local economies. Many consumers are increasingly aware of the impact of their purchases and the environmental effects of shipping and returns; by shopping locally, they can reduce the carbon footprint associated with online order shipping. This growing consciousness around sustainability is a powerful motivator, encouraging consumers to seek out stores that contribute positively to their communities.

2. Evaluate the existing tech stack

Before making a new purchase, Pichelot recommends that companies carefully assess their existing tech stack. “Often,” she notes, “there are already tools available that can meet the needs without incurring extra costs. It’s essential to ask: Do we already have a solution that could do the job?

This can mean reviewing current tools that may be underutilized or have features that could be expanded upon. Sometimes, the proposed investment is a replacement for outdated software, which can be easier to justify, but in cases where it’s an entirely new addition to the tech ecosystem, extra diligence is sometimes required to understand why the current solutions aren’t sufficient and whether the problem lies in the tools themselves or in how they are being used.

Teams should not only understand the limitations of their current tech stack but also thoroughly investigate whether the new software genuinely offers a significant advantage. Are the problems truly caused by the limitations of the current system, or is there a more efficient way to use what’s already in place?

3. Evaluate the requested software

After reviewing the business case and evaluating the current tech stack, the next step is a closer examination of the proposed software. Pichelot emphasizes the importance of future-proofing by ensuring any new software integrates well with the existing tech ecosystem.

“Many tech stacks accumulate ad hoc tools,” Pichelot explained, “but when integration is challenging or impossible, it often leads to further complications.” A tool that doesn’t work in harmony with other systems may not deliver its full value, especially as a business scales or adds new solutions.

To gain a realistic perspective on a software’s potential, Pichelot suggests speaking directly with its users. “It’s essential to talk with those who have firsthand experience with the tool,” she advised. “Get their candid insights on the benefits they’ve realized and the challenges it’s resolved.”

This feedback provides valuable information beyond sales pitches, giving insight into real-world use cases and helping you determine if the software effectively addresses the issues it claims to solve.

Strategic Decision-Making in Tough Times

Deciding whether to invest in technology during an economic downturn is rarely straightforward. Sometimes, investing for long-term benefits is the right choice; other times, it’s better to optimize the value of existing resources.

As Pichelot recommends, a balanced approach includes assessing the ROI of potential investments, considering the opportunity cost of holding back, and thoroughly understanding your current tech stack to ensure any new software integrates well with existing tools. In uncertain times, it may be tempting to avoid new expenses altogether, but strategic, well-informed tech investments can be crucial to emerging stronger. By aligning investments with business needs, evaluating the risks of delay, and ensuring compatibility with current tools, companies can make smart decisions that set them up for both immediate and future success.

One of the most impressive aspects of Pilot’s strategy is its dedication to continuously improving its production processes. Julien shared that their bestselling pens, Frixion and G2, now include recycled materials, a significant achievement given the complexities of working with different raw materials.

The Role of Akeneo: Supporting Sustainability with Seamless Product Information Management

As sustainability initiatives become more complex, the need for efficient management of product information across multiple channels and markets grows. This is where Akeneo steps in, providing robust Product Information Management (PIM) solutions that help brands like Asket and Pilot streamline their processes.

For Asket, ensuring transparency and educating consumers about their product’s environmental impact requires managing vast amounts of detailed product information. Akeneo’s PIM system allows Asket to store, organize, and distribute this information effectively, ensuring that every garment’s story is accurately conveyed to the consumer. As Vidar noted, “Before we had a PIM, we stored all of this information in Excel and Google Sheets, which was cumbersome and inefficient. With Akeneo, we can now manage and share product data seamlessly.”

Pilot also benefits from Akeneo’s PIM solution in maintaining consistency across its extensive distribution network. Julien emphasized, “We manage product information in 18 languages and across 26 subsidiaries. Akeneo’s PIM makes it easier for us to provide complete, accurate, and up-to-date product information to all stakeholders, ensuring that our sustainability message is not lost in translation.”

Akeneo not only helps these brands manage their current product information but also supports their future growth and sustainability initiatives. As these companies expand globally, Akeneo’s scalable solutions ensure that their product data remains consistent and accessible, no matter where their products are sold.

The Road Ahead: Integrating Sustainability into Business Strategy

Both Asket and Pilot have shown that integrating sustainability into business strategies is possible and can drive innovation and customer loyalty. However, they also acknowledge the challenges that come with this journey.

For Asket, the challenge lies in maintaining transparency and educating consumers about the impact of their choices. As Vidar pointed out, “It’s important to understand that sustainability is a journey. You don’t wake up one day and say, ‘Hey, we are sustainable.’ It takes time and continuous effort.”

Pilot, on the other hand, faces the challenge of ensuring consistent product information across its extensive distribution network. Julien emphasized the importance of empowering subsidiaries and distributors with the right tools and knowledge to support their sustainability goals. “It’s a real challenge to ensure that end users receive complete and fresh information. We must consider every actor in the distribution chain,” he said.

A Collective Effort Toward a Sustainable Future

The experiences of Asket and Pilot highlight the importance of a collective effort in achieving sustainability. Whether it’s through educating consumers, innovating production processes, or ensuring transparency across the supply chain, every step counts.

As businesses continue to navigate the complexities of sustainability and profitability, the lessons from Asket and Pilot offer a roadmap for others to follow. By prioritizing sustainability, companies not only contribute to a better planet but also build stronger, more resilient businesses for the future.

As Vidar aptly put it, “Building to last—both in terms of products and business strategies—requires thinking about the entire lifecycle, from design to production to end-of-life.” It’s a philosophy that all businesses should embrace as they chart their course towards a sustainable future.

Ready to revolutionize your approach to sustainability and product experience? Download our exclusive white paper on the PX Revolution to discover how you can align your business with the latest consumer trends and combat reckless consumerism with enhanced sustainable product experiences. Download now and take the next step towards a more sustainable future for your brand!

3. Supply chain transparency

Despite an overall trend towards price-consciousness, half of U.S. consumers surveyed said they would pay a premium for sustainably sourced products. Incorporating details like the origin of your materials, the ethical practices behind their sourcing, and the sustainability of your manufacturing process gives shoppers the confidence they need to value-based decisions.

As more consumers seek to align their purchases with their values, particularly around environmental and ethical concerns, the depth and clarity of the product information you provide can be the deciding factor in whether they’re willing to pay full price, or even a premium, for your goods.

Consumers are no longer swayed by vague buzzwords like “green” or “eco-friendly”; they want specifics, and product information provides that transparency. Clearly indicating where raw materials are sourced from or disclosing ethical practices involved in the production process adds a layer of credibility to claims of sustainability.

This transparency doesn’t just enhance trust; it also helps price-conscious shoppers see the long-term value of their investment. They can weigh the benefits of buying higher-quality, responsibly sourced items that may last longer and have a lower environmental impact, versus cheaper, less sustainable alternatives.

4. Resale markets

The rise of resale markets has been a game-changer for retailers, offering an opportunity to cater to budget-conscious consumers who are looking for quality goods at a reduced price. Creating a resale section on your website or in-store, where shoppers can purchase previously owned or returned items, can appeal to those who want to save money while still getting access to premium products.

Resale markets can also help you reduce the costs associated with excess inventory and returns. Instead of writing off returned items, you can give them a second life and sell them to shoppers who are excited to snag a good deal!

For resale initiatives to be successful, retailers must have detailed, accessible, and up-to-date information on the condition, specifications, and purchase or repair history of each item being resold in order to accurately classify and categorize these items for sale. Without this data, it becomes difficult to build trust with customers and ensure that the products in the resale market are accurately described, properly valued, and appealing to buyers.

Reliable product data also ensures that retailers can properly manage inventory for the resale market. By maintaining a database of available resale items, along with their condition, origin, and other pertinent details, retailers can streamline the process of updating their website or store with accurate resale options. This level of organization and transparency is essential to scaling resale operations, reducing operational inefficiencies, and delivering a seamless shopping experience to consumers.

2024 Holiday Shopping Season

This holiday season, price-conscious consumers will be looking for more value, not just lower prices. With the right strategies, you can stand out from the competition and delight value-driven shoppers, all while maintaining your margins and boosting sales during this critical shopping season. 

To learn more about the trends impacting the holiday shopping season, you can download the 2024 Holiday Shopping Guide here, complete with expert insights and actionable strategies.