New Look has released its Sustainability Report for 2023, offering an update on its ‘Kind to Our Core’ sustainability strategy, which was initially announced in January 2022. The report outlines the retailer’s progress in various environmental, social, and governance (ESG) areas, including carbon emissions, supply chain transparency, and social impact.
In a significant move, New Look has submitted its Science Based Targets (SBTs) for approval, expected to be confirmed in November. These targets include a near-term goal of reducing carbon emissions by 46% by 2031 and a long-term objective to achieve Net Zero by 2040. The submission of these targets is ahead of the company’s initial timeline, underscoring its commitment to ESG goals.
New Look’s early submission of its SBTs aligns with its aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from its products by 50% by 2030.
Earlier this month, New Look held a Supplier Conference in London to discuss sustainability targets and responsible sourcing. The company has also signed up to the Zero Discharge of Hazardous Chemicals (ZDHC) roadmap and will implement this throughout its supply chain.
In a strategic partnership, New Look has teamed up with TrusTrace, a leader in supply chain transparency. This collaboration will provide New Look with greater visibility across its supply chain, up to Tier 4 suppliers, enhancing its responsible sourcing capabilities.
Sue Fairley, Head of Sustainability at New Look, stated, “Over the last 18 months we have embraced our ‘Kind to Our Core’ strategy and made significant progress across our targets. Our new partnership with TrusTrace has also been a highlight of the year for New Look. TrusTrace’s technology will give us visibility through to our Tier 4 suppliers helping us to further mitigate any supply chain risks.”
Shameek Ghosh, TrusTrace CEO and Co-Founder, added, “At TrusTrace, we have a vision of the future where all value chains are traceable, circular and fair, and we are excited to partner with New Look to support them in delivering on their sustainability strategy when it comes to responsible sourcing.”
The report also updates on New Look’s achievements across its four key pillars:
- Responsible Business: New Look has reduced its scope 1 and 2 emissions by 18% and scope 3 emissions by 22%. The company has also achieved a ‘progressive level’ with the Sustainable Apparel Coalition one year ahead of schedule.
- Responsible and Circular Product: The retailer has switched to lower-impact materials, with 63% of its ranges now having lower impact attributes. It has also invested in lower-impact cotton through Better Cotton.
- Inclusive Culture: New Look has increased the visibility of colleague demographic data from 24% to 80%, aiding its diversity and inclusion efforts.
- Positive Local Impact: The company now offers 85% of its core clothing size up to a size 22 and has raised £936,000 for its charity partners, including The Retail Trust.
