More than eight out of 10 grocery manufacturers have either increased or maintained their investment in sustainability during the recession, according to industry expert IGD.
IGD said the backing for sustainability came despite 42% of manufacturers believing it is not yet high enough on shoppers’ agendas.
Three-quarters of suppliers forecast sustainability would play a greater role in their trading relationships with retailers in the near future, but just over 40% saw increased global competition for resource and more complex legislation as two of the biggest threats to wider business sustainability in 2010 and beyond.
Joanne Denney-Finch, chief executive, IGD, said: “Our recent consumer research has shown that shoppers are already concerned about the environmental impact of products and continue to seek value for their values.
“However, manufacturers are looking further to the future, increasing investment in sustainable solutions and anticipating that shopper interest in green products is still in its formative stages. It is set to be a major feature in the marketplace in the coming decade.”
