Forterro study also reveals the impact operating more sustainably has, with 80% of firms saying it has directly increased profitability
New research from European software provider Forterro has revealed that 87% of UK midmarket e-commerce firms prioritise sustainability in their operations, highlighting a significant industry-wide shift towards eco-friendly practices.
The study also showed that 80% of UK mid-market e-commerce firms have said that operating more sustainably has directly increased their profitability, demonstrating that sustainability and business growth can go hand-in-hand.
“How a company approaches sustainability has become an important purchasing consideration for many consumers, so e-commerce firms have had to really up their game to show how seriously they take this issue,” said David Coste, President, North & Western Europe, Forterro. “It’s become far more than corporate responsibility and is something that every business should prioritise, especially given the direct link to financial success is so pronounced.”
Forterro’s research also revealed the extent to which UK e-commerce firms are now focused on sustainability. 80% of respondents said they have dedicated resources to address sustainability, and 79% have developed a net-zero plan.
Supply chains are one of the principal areas where sustainability efforts have been focused. 93% of e-commerce firms have digitised their supply chains to enhance transport efficiencies, and 79% are localising their supply chains to reduce environmental impact.
The desire amongst e-commerce firms for greater control over operations (42%) and cost reduction (42%) were the key factors driving supply chain localisation, closely followed by customer demand (38%) and the need for increased sustainability (36%).
Technology can be used to significant effect when it comes to sustainable operations. ERP can help e-commerce firms enhance their sustainability efforts, making it easier to manage resources efficiently, reduce waste, manage inventory and maintain compliance with environmental regulations. 85% of the research respondents said that ERP helps their organisation operate more sustainably.
“In a highly complex e-commerce landscape, an ERP system has for many become an essential technology. It’s also a hugely effective way to manage resources more responsibly and take meaningful steps towards Net Zero,” continued Coste. “It’s a proactive measure that can both reduce costs and help companies meet increasing demand for environmentally friendly products and operational practices.”
The findings come from a Forterro study – The UK Midmarket Ecommerce Report: Key Tech Trends, Best Practice and Future-Proofing – which is available to download here: https://www.forterro.com/en/uk-midmarket-ecommerce-report
