The World Environment Center’s (WEC) Twenty-Fourth Annual Gold Medal for International Corporate Achievement in Sustainable Development has been awarded to Marks & Spencer for linking sustainability extensively with its supply chain, operations, and customers. Marks & Spencer’s signature contribution, known as “Plan A”, was cited by the independent international Gold Medal Jury as an extraordinary and successful model of sustainability practice. Plan A is a magnificent commitment from such a large UK retailer.
Following the success of their 2005, “Look behind the label” campaign, leading UK retailer, Marks and Spencer launched a £200m ethical campaign in 2006, entitled Plan A. The 100-point, five year sustainable development program, covers all aspects of Marks & Spencer’s business. Through it, the UK retailer aims to become carbon neutral and send no waste to landfill from its own operations; extend sustainable sourcing; set new standards in ethical trading and help its customers and employees live a healthier lifestyle.
Stuart Rose, Chief Executive, Marks & Spencer said:
“We are delighted to receive this prestigious award. Our customers, shareholders and employees have also embraced our Plan A ambitions, and it’s now how we do business. While we still have a long way to go and face many more challenges ahead, we are making good progress and this recognition will provide even more motivation for our teams as we continue to deliver our plan.”
The WEC Gold Medal Award will be presented to Marks & Spencer at the 24th Gold Medal Presentation gala on Friday, May 9, 2008 at the National Building Museum in Washington, D.C. Mr. Stuart Rose, Chief Executive will accept the award on behalf of the company and its employees.
+ 2008 WEC Gold Medal Award (pdf)
+ Marks & Spencer: Plan A
+ Marks & Spencer: Video Interviews
+ World Environment Center
Filed under: Ecology | Tagged: Award, Carbon Neutral, consumer, Gold, M&S, marks and spencer, PlanA, retail, sustainability, WEC, World Environment Center
