New Zealand Celsias

In 2007, UK retailer Marks & Spencer launched a sustainability plan—a plan Jonathon Porritt called a “new benchmark” for major retailers. Plan A (“because there is no Plan B”) is a hundred point plan for the company, its suppliers, and its customers. In a nutshell, it sets out 100 commitments to achieve in 5 years. Marks & Spencer says will be a cost-neutral program, despite the intent to spend approximately 200 million pounds over the next five years. Plan A is a roadmap to a more sustainable business, and towards a more enduring relationship with its customers. 

Plan A’s one hundred points are organised around five areas: climate change, waste, sustainable raw materials, health and being a fair partner. Since the program’s inception Marks & Spencer state they have seen lower carbon emissions and greater green energy production in its supply chains, and introduced Fairtrade, organic, recycled and energy efficient products. 

Mark & Spencer’s chief executive Stuart Rose says the plan is both ambitious and in some areas, difficult. “We don’t have all the answers but we are determined to work with our suppliers, partners and government to make this happen,” he says. 

The company’s long-term success is in part due to their understanding of customer expectations. Plan A is a case in point. “We’re doing this because it’s what you want us to do. It’s also the right thing to do,” say Marks & Spencer. Customers are also encouraged to involve themselves in Plan A buy pledging their own lifestyle changes. The Plan A website makes it clear: “We want to involve you in Plan A. We’ve created a series of pledges that you can take to make your lifestyle more sustainable. Some are quick and easy, and some need a bit more commitment, but all of them will help you to make a difference.” 

More at: www.plana.marksandspencer.com

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