Sustainability remains - the question is how we shape it

Results of the new study on current sustainability trends in the FMCG sector

The fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector comprises manufacturers and retailers of everyday products. These include, for example, food, beverages, personal care products, household goods and cleaning products. Many of these products have a limited expiration date, have a high sales volume and are purchased frequently and usually without much thought.

The FMCG industry plays a central role in the economy both globally and nationally and is part of the wider sustainability debate. As one of the most dynamic and in-demand industries, it not only influences global consumer behavior, but also the way resources are used.

What is currently driving the FMCG industry in the area of sustainability? Which topics are particularly present? How is sustainability implemented organizationally in the companies? How are current laws and guidelines in the area of sustainability being dealt with? Do companies feel prepared?* What opportunities and challenges are associated with sustainability? How will the topic of sustainability develop in the future?

The results show: Political uncertainties, rising energy prices, geopolitical tensions and stricter regulations are causing companies to rethink their priorities. Many are now setting different priorities. So is sustainability at a turning point?

Companies continue to rate the topic as very relevant. However, compared to the last survey, there are more voices that rate sustainability as important, but currently find other topics more urgent.

As in the last survey, the most important sustainability issue for companies is health and safety in the workplace. Other key issues for both manufacturers and retailers are sustainable packaging and the avoidance of packaging as well as the avoidance of waste. The consistency of these topics shows: Companies are pursuing long-term goals and not just reacting to short-term trends.

The main challenges for companies in implementing sustainability are consumers' low willingness to pay and high implementation costs. In comparison, however, they recognize more opportunities, such as the reduction of environmental pollution and image improvements.

Even if the topic no longer has the same priority as it did in the last study, the respondents agree that sustainability will become even more important in the future. Companies should therefore continue to pursue the topic strategically - with a sense of proportion, but consistently, in order to implement future-oriented, resilient and therefore also economically successful entrepreneurship.

The full study provides further insights, classifies the results and shows practical ideas for implementation. It can be ordered here: www.lebensmittelzeitung.net/nachhaltigkeitsstudie2025

*The questions in this study refer to the situation before February 2025 - before the Omnibus Regulation was announced by the EU Commission