Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is no longer just a buzzword—it's a business imperative. Consumers are becoming increasingly conscious of the impact their choices have on the environment and society.
In fact, 45% of global consumers actively try to make a positive impact through their daily actions1. For businesses in the foodservice, wholesale, and retail sectors, adopting a CSR strategy is not only beneficial for the planet but also a key driver of customer loyalty and brand differentiation.
Responsible companies that integrate CSR into their core business operations can experience significant business success. Moreover, it can improve their brand image, build customer loyalty and strengthen relationships, as well as enhancing the commitment and well-being of their employees.
Let's discover together the key concepts of CSR, the advantages of implementing a CSR policy in your company, and some tips on how to do it.
CSR Definition: What is Corporate Social Responsibility?
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) refers to a company's commitment to managing its social, environmental, and economic impact responsibly. It involves implementing sustainable practices across operations, ensuring ethical sourcing, reducing waste, and contributing positively to society. In the food industry, this could mean choosing locally sourced ingredients, reducing food waste, or supporting community programs. CSR strategies often include corporate responsibility initiatives that address aspects of society such as human rights, fair treatment of employees, and reducing environmental impacts like greenhouse gas emissions and water consumption. Additionally, firms may implement sustainability efforts by introducing eco-friendly packaging, supporting local communities, or engaging in charitable activities.
Importance of CSR in Business: Why it matters
Meet Consumer Expectations with Ethical Responsibility
Today's consumers expect companies to be responsible. Recent studies highlight this growing demand: 64% of consumers bought from sustainable organisations between October and November 20242. Millennials, in particular, are willing to pay more for sustainable products1. Furthermore, 50% of consumers worldwide are willing to spend more on sustainable food and drink, despite the challenges posed by inflation3. These figures underline the importance for companies to integrate CSR into their activities in order to meet consumer expectations and promote their long-term success. These companies often see stronger customer engagement and increased retention.
Enhance Product Value and Corporate Social Responsibility Strategy
By offering products labelled ‘vegan’, ‘vegetarian’ or ‘plant-based’, companies can appeal to a growing number of environmentally conscious consumers by meeting their needs. Communicating transparently about these offers can build trust and customer loyalty. In addition, labels such as ‘locally sourced’ are gaining popularity, with more than 60% of consumers in France, Germany and the United States considering them to be indicators of sustainability3.
Build Trust Through Transparent Corporate Responsibility Policies
Transparent communication about sustainability initiatives builds consumer trust and loyalty. Consumers expect foodservice providers to prioritize ethical sourcing, minimize waste, and be open about their progress4. Publishing a CSR report that outlines clear goals, progress, and achievements can further strengthen relationships with investors, customers, and employees.
Improve Employee Engagement and Retention
Additionally, implementing a strong CSR policy can lead to improved employee engagement and retention. Employees are more likely to feel proud of and committed to their work when they know their company is making a positive impact. Purpose-driven organizations often experience lower turnover rates and higher levels of motivation and satisfaction. Ethical responsibility and fair treatment are essential elements of a robust CSR policy, contributing to a diverse workforce and inclusive work environment, encompassing aspects such as gender, sexual orientation, and disability inclusion.
Meet your own values
You have built your company around founding values, which are, indeed, very important to you. We know business-owners themselves care about some sustainability topics, whether from a social, societal or environmental point of views – or all at once! Defining a strategy to reduce your environmental footprint and enhance your positive societal impact will also create consistency for your business!
Tips for Implementing a Successful CSR Policy
1. Start with Clear Goals: Identify key areas where your business can reduce its environmental impact, improve social contributions, and ensure ethical sourcing. Define measurable CSR goals aligned with your corporate social responsibility strategy.
2. Engage Stakeholders: Collaborate with suppliers, employees, and customers to drive sustainability across your value chain. Responsible companies often build strong relationships with their local community and stakeholders.
3. Communicate Transparently: Regularly report on your progress through sustainability reports, social media updates, and product labeling. Transparent governance matters and helps build trust with both investors and consumers.
4. Promote and Sustainable Products: Incorporate locally sourced ingredients and highlight them in your offerings to meet consumer expectations. Reducing greenhouse gas emissions through sustainable supply chains also enhances your CSR credibility.
5. Measuring Impact and Success: Establish clear KPIs (Key Performance Indicators) to track the effectiveness of your CSR initiatives. Regularly evaluate your progress and adapt strategies to maximize positive impact. Transparent reporting will also build stakeholder trust and demonstrate your commitment to continuous improvement.
Adopting a CSR strategy is not just about compliance; it is a powerful way to stimulate the growth of the company, strengthen relationships with customers and contribute to a more sustainable future.
What about Délifrance?
At Délifrance, we are committed to our CSR approach through our ‘Baking Good BETTER’ approach. Our efforts are focused on sustainable development, limiting the impact of our activities on the planet, supporting the community and taking care of our teams.
We also offer plant-based alternatives, especially with our vegan Délifrance Impact by Rodolphe Landemain range. We are committed to making a difference by offering quality products for everyone, today and tomorrow.
Read our latest CSR report to learn more about our progress and future goals: Delifrance CSR Report 2023-2024.
References:
1 Euromonitor International, (2024). Voice of the Consumer: Sustainability Survey 2024. | 2 Capgemini Research Institute, (2024). Consumer Demand Survey, October–November 2024. |3L.E.K., (2024). Sustainability Confirmed as a Key Ingredient for Food and Beverage Consumers. | 4Mintel, (2024). UK Sustainability in Foodservice Market Report 2024.