Corporate Responsibility Programs

Corporate social responsibility (CSR), once a differentiator for brands, is now the norm. Today’s consumers expect those they do business with, including retailers, will have positive impacts on the world. In fact, Gen Z consumers are three times as likely to say that the “purpose of business is to serve communities and society” rather than…

In today’s retail landscape, success extends far beyond profit margins and market share. Increasingly, consumers are looking to align their purchasing decisions with their personal values, driving the need for retailers to incorporate social impact initiatives into their business strategies. When I audit companies, they often show me their CSR and sustainability report where I…

During the holidays, many retailers focused on demonstrating corporate responsibility through generous corporate giving programs primarily centered around donations. While donations are a wonderful start, there are many additional ways to show consumers you care, and holistic corporate responsibility is crucial year-round. Brands can be good social stewards throughout the year by focusing on inclusive…

Studies have proven that more diverse teams and organizations perform better. Yet progress with diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives remains stubbornly slow for far too many organizations. During a panel session at Total Retail Tech last month, three leaders from At Home, Build-A-Bear Workshop, and Bandier discussed how their companies have been working to…

As environmental social governance (ESG) grows higher on the agenda for many organizations, fulfilling a moral obligation to consumers is fast becoming a necessity for brand success. And with greenwashing accusations now commonplace, businesses’ ESG programs must go beyond simply ensuring ethical supply chains and using sustainable materials. To avoid irreversible damage to reputation and consumer…

In episode 404 of Total Retail Talks, Editor-in-Chief Joe Keenan interviews Donna Dozier Gordon, head of inclusion and diversity for region Americas at H&M, a global fashion brand offering the latest styles and inspiration for all. During the wide-ranging interview, Dozier Gordon discusses her role at H&M (1:40), the retailer's expansion of its extended size assortment…

Consumers are posing an ultimatum to fashion and apparel brands: Start taking sustainability seriously or they’ll shop elsewhere. A new study of UK consumers found that 81 percent intend to boycott apparel brands that don’t prioritize sustainability within the next two years. These consumers are part of a clear global trend: Growing swaths of consumers…

For the second consecutive year, L.L.Bean is pausing its social media accounts for the entire month of May to raise awareness about mental health. The campaign is also encouraging people to go outside during the month. The outdoor outfitter brand is also sharing resources and tips to support people in getting outside for their own mental…

In today's world, retail companies are faced with intense competition and are constantly seeking ways to differentiate themselves from their competitors. One way to do this is by adopting nonprofit fundraising programs on behalf of their customers. A nonprofit fundraising program is a program where retailers partner with a nonprofit organization to support their cause,…

In episode 380 of Total Retail Talks, Editor-in-Chief Joe Keenan interviews Amanda Hayes, director of corporate communications, diversity and inclusion at Jo-Ann Stores, an American specialty retailer of crafts and fabrics operating the retail chains JOANN Fabrics and Crafts and Jo-Ann Etc. Listen in as Hayes discusses Jo-Ann Stores' annual holiday partnership with St. Jude…