TWC finds positive c-store perceptions
OVER one third of consumers believe that shopping at convenience stores is better for the environment, according to a new report from TWC.
The data services firm’s ‘Do good, feel good’ report revealed that over 70% of consumers are concerned about the environment and sustainability issues – and these concerns are affecting where consumers shop.
In addition to the 40% that agreed shopping in convenience is better for the environment, almost half of respondents to TWC’s survey said that sustainability will have a greater influence over where they shop in the future.
The report did find split opinions on the environmental impact of shopping at c-stores, with 35% agreeing it is better for the environment, 33% disagreeing and 32% unsure.
Environmental positives of the convenience channel highlighted by TWC included that these stores are most commonly visited on foot; support the local economy and in some cases local suppliers; and have lower basket spend, meaning less waste.
Concerns over the environmental credentials of the convenience channel included the logistics of delivering to a network of small stores.
By generation, those aged 18-24 were most likely to ‘strongly agree’ that sustainability concerns are already influencing where they shop for groceries.
Sarah Coleman, communications director at TWC, said:
“This is a really important issue for consumers and one that is going to rise in importance or possibly become an expectation.
“Almost two-thirds of consumers agreed that food retailers who don’t take sustainability or environmental issues seriously are likely to lose out in the future – this is a big watch out for all businesses.”
• The Do good, feel good report is the fourth and final part of a mini series from TWC Trends. The full report can be found at twcgroup.net
