UK businesses trying to do the right thing should shout about their credentials as much as they do about their products, according to a new survey which found that shoppers reasons for choosing one business over another is often down to their ethics.
The survey, by the UK’s waste management agency BusinessWaste.co.uk, asked more than 2,000 people about their high street habits up and down the country and 90% of people surveyed said they always take a business’s accreditation and record into account when it comes to things like tax, hygiene, staff morale and environmental issues, suggesting that a business that displays its certifications will prosper.
45% of those asked said they would only consider using businesses that pay their tax in the UK, while 75% wanted to see indications that companies they use are taking care of the planet. Customers are also shopping around for businesses with happy and loyal staff, demonstrating that businesses are looking after their employees properly behind the scenes.
Typical of the comments received from survey respondents were ‘I prefer to go to businesses where staff have worked for a long time’, ‘I judge a business by how friendly the staff are and whether they seem like they enjoy working there’ and ‘I don’t mind paying a bit extra for a place with staff who really care’.
Mark Hall, a spokesperson for BusinessWaste.co.uk.co.uk, said: “What we’re finding is that customers are becoming more and more discerning with the growing amount of choice they have and are aware of bad business practice too. It’s not just your products or services they’re buying into, but your business ethos as well, so it’s now more important than ever to get and display your credentials. As a business you need to be constantly telling potential customers who you are, and proving that you’re one of the good guys, to inspire that loyalty.”
