While high prices are hitting many British shoppers’ ability to make eco-conscious shopping choices, many are still prioritising sustainable packaging in their weekly shops. According to a small study by Quantilope, one in five Britons make planet-friendly food choices that prioritise sustainable packaging (20%), while 19% buy products with local ingredients.
Despite this willingness to opt for items with sustainable packaging, the majority (79%) of shoppers make decisions about food brands and products based on price considerations. Peter Aschmoneit, CEO and co-founder of Quantilope, says: ‘There are barriers that need to be removed, or reduced, to make sustainable behaviours easier; money is the biggest barrier, with uncertainty about what is sustainable and limited access to sustainable products also reducing sustainable actions.’
With this research in mind, brands should focus future strategies on providing accessible food options that also offer sustainable packaging.
Strategic opportunity
Food suppliers should consider working with local communities to encourage circular packaging solutions that are inexpensive and make use of existing resources