RICOMAN is a lighting manufacturer based in Manchester and it places sustainability at the heart of its business. It has been taking part in the Made in Britain Green Growth programme and marketing manager Richard Green (left) describes the experience.
How integral do you see sustainable business practices to the future of your business?
At Ricoman Lighting we believe that sustainable business practices are more than just a goal, we see them as a necessity for our business going forward. We recognise the impact we have on the environment and as a result, understand that we have a responsibility to be constantly improving our sustainable practices.
To what extent does your approach to sustainable business set you apart?
For several years we have been developing our products with sustainability in mind. We already have a number of circular economy products and many more in development. We are constantly making small improvements in our practices, such as switching to paperless instructions, using electric company cars and shredding cardboard for packing filling. I believe the aggregation of marginal gains combined with our larger-scale efforts will ensure we are leading the trend when it comes to sustainability.
What are the advantages of doing business sustainably?
Apart from the obvious environmental benefits of running a more sustainable business, there are also internal benefits for our business. As our sustainability approach has increased, we have noticed an increase in productivity and reduced business costs. An added benefit is we have been recognised by our peers and customers as a company who have a favourable ethos.
How have you engaged your team members/supply chain/other stakeholders around the Green Growth programme?
We have shared the news of our commitment to the Green Growth programme with our staff and we have had a very positive reaction.
What advice would you give to Made in Britain members as they progress on their sustainability journeys?
I believe everybody, and every company has the ability to improve its sustainability. It may be the case that you believe your company is as sustainable as it can be, or at the opposite end of the scale, you may believe that with the nature of your business your efforts may be futile. I would counter this argument by recommending each and every person and business to start with just one very small change. Once you have made one small change and you see how simple it can be, then you can make another and another. Soon all of these small sustainable changes will amount to a big change to your business and the world around you.
The Made in Britain Green Growth programme is available to members of Made in Britain only. It has been designed to enable and empower a member business to progress its sustainability journey by joining a cohort of more sustainable, more resilient and more competitive manufacturing businesses. Members can access the Green Growth programme here (login required).
By Made in Britain 1 year ago | By Made in Britain