Customers from Dutch want web shops to make them aware of the most sustainable shipping option

With customers shopping online more often, they expect companies to focus on sustainability on those channels too. Manhattan Associates research shows that almost six in 10 Dutch consumers value transparency on environmental impact and like to be informed about the most sustainable shipping option.

By now, most consumers are used to placing orders online. Figures from Manhattan's research, for which the company surveyed one thousand (1,000) Dutch consumers from different age groups, show that more than two in three participants (67%) make an online purchase at least once a month on average. 17% even order something via a webshop every week.

Of course, the popularity of online shopping from customers should not leave a negative mark on the environment. The survey therefore also gauged consumers' expectations of companies in terms of sustainability. Seven in ten (71%) think it is important for companies to make their activities more sustainable. In addition, over 58% want organisations to communicate extensively and transparently about the efforts they make, including to produce and deliver sustainably.

Sustainable shipping and returns

Ordered today, delivered tomorrow? According to the survey, that need not be a must. Some 67% of participants expect web shops to offer climate-friendly delivery and return options. Just over half of consumers (57%) also want online sales channels to actively make them aware of the most sustainable shipping option. There is certainly still work to be done here, as only 34% believe that online shops are already clearly communicating this today. The packaging of an order also deserves attention: 73% of consumers expect sellers to use sustainable packaging materials.

Finally, sustainability should also be a factor in options to return items. Some 69% attach importance to the sustainable life cycle of products they purchase. For example, companies should recycle returned items. And instead of immediately replacing returned products, 67% would first like to be given the choice of having the item in question repaired.

"The e-commerce sector has already taken significant steps to become more sustainable in recent years. Today, more than ever, sustainability is the priority for any successful webshop. Changing customers' behaviour is only possible if you inform them properly. Therefore, offer different shipping options and show the ecological impact of each choice. Ultimately, this is not only good for sustainability, but it also helps to work more efficiently and save costs. A win-win for customer, retailer and planet," says Pieter Van den Broecke, managing director at Manhattan Associates Belgium, the Netherlands, Denmark, Germany and Eastern Europe.

read more about the e-commerce sector in more articles from dutchtechonheels.