From Michael Hill to Adorn Cosmetics: Aussie brands paving the way for sustainable business practices

The third Power Retail Sustainability Report has been released, revealing key consumer trends and the brands that are pivoting to meet them. Amongst other findings, this year’s report indicated that 56% of Australians consider how sustainable a brand is when making purchases. And over 69% of Australians believe the retail industry creates too much waste.

So, which Australian retailers are responding to the push for sustainable purchasing options and why?

In a recent interview with SmartCompany Plus, Power Retail founder Grant Arnott spoke about the report’s findings. And Daniel Bracken, CEO of Michael Hill Jewellery, and Briony Kennedy, founder of Adorn Cosmetics, joined the conversation.

Australian consumers are prioritising sustainability

Compiled with the help of sustainability consultants The Purpose Agents, this year’s Power Retail Sustainability Report surveyed 53 businesses and spotlights the top retail achievers in eight categories: 

• Circularity (Michael Hill Jewellers), 
• Stewardship (Adorn Cosmetics), 
• Reconciliation with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island communities (Modibodi), 
• Driving systemic change (Country Road), 
• Diversity and inclusion (Lenovo), 
• Ethical sourcing and transparency (Princess Polly), and 
• Waste reduction (Officeworks).

The report also highlights and tracks key consumer trends related to sustainable purchase decision-making.

In the 2023 report, cost of living factors are believed to...