International PR Network

Sustainability has become a mainstream concern for UK consumers but does not necessarily translate into altered shopping behaviours, according to a new survey from The Nielsen Company.

Several market researchers have speculated that 2010 would be the year in which consumers would regain their interest in sustainability – both in terms of the environment and wider ethical choices – as the world begins to emerge from the economic turmoil of the past two years.

And some areas have seen increased interest from UK consumers compared to 2007 levels, while others have remained resilient throughout the recession.

Fairly traded foods are one example, with the percentage of consumers who aim to buy Fairtrade products up from 29 per cent in 2007 to 32 per cent in 2010. Some certified Fairtrade products have done particularly well despite the economy – according to the global Fairtrade body, Fairtrade Labelling Organizations International, Fairtrade cocoa sales were up 35 per cent in 2009, while Fairtrade sugar sales grew by 57 per cent…

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