Convenience more sustainable, say growing number of consumers

Shopping at convenience stores is better for the environment – that’s what more of a third of consumers believe according to a TWC report

The study also found that sustainability concerns are already influencing where people are buying their groceries, with more to come in the future.

The TWC Trends ‘Do Good, Feel Good’ report revealed that more than 70% of consumers are concerned about environmental and sustainability issues. And while the youngest cohort, Gen Z (aged 18-24) were most likely to ‘strongly agree’ with this statement, overall agreement (‘agree’ + ‘strongly agree’) was also highest among Boomers (aged 55+).

The research found that older shoppers were also more likely to consider themselves more concerned about environmental issues than they were three years ago, suggesting Boomers are catching up with their younger counterparts in terms of concerns about sustainability.

“This is a really important issue for consumers and one that is going to rise in importance or possibly become an expectation,” said Communications Director Sarah Coleman.

“Almost two-thirds of consumers agreed that food retailers who don’t take sustainability or environmental issues seriously are likely to lose out in the future – this is a big watch out for all businesses.”

Currently, consumers are unsure of the environmental impact of shopping at c-stores, with an equal split between those who agree it is better for the environment (35%), those that disagree (33%) and those that are unsure (32%). Whilst commonly visited on foot; supporting the local economy and in some cases local suppliers; and smaller baskets tending to mean less waste; there is also an awareness of the logistics of delivering to a network of small stores as a less positive aspect of shopping at convenience stores.

“Currently we see the grocery mults are well ahead on demonstrating their environmental credentials and therefore convenience and wholesale must reposition itself as a strong choice for sustainable shopping,” added Coleman.

“Of course, key to this will be identifying which elements of sustainability are most relevant and important to their customers and aligning their communications accordingly.

“There is an opportunity here to talk up the environmental benefits of shopping at convenience stores. For example, walking to store (both customers and staff) and collaborations with local businesses that drive the local economy. We believe this would really resonate with consumers.

“However, we also have to recognise the challenges of implementing sustainability initiatives – whether that is for example the investment required to fit energy efficient chillers or lighting or offering a range of locally sourced produce.

“By their very nature, local lines from small suppliers are not going to deliver volume and so these demands can be at odds for the retailer and wholesaler. Range recommendations must therefore balance core lines, plus more, to meet this increasing need.”