Introducing APPA's newest New-Zealand based suppier member- Ecosource.
Q: Tell us a bit about Ecosource- what do you do and what is your history?
A: Ecosource is the leading provider of sustainable and ethically sourced corporate gifts and promotional products in Oceania. We have an extensive portfolio of promotional items, with a diverse collection of daily life items ranging from office to home and technology to apparel. We continuously refresh our product assortment, setting trends and demands in the market. We offer decoration on our products to enhance any clients brand awareness and take personalisation to the next level by creating unique products with our made to order program.
We believe it’s deeply important that the materials and ingredients that our partners use preserve and protect the planet for future generations. When Ecosource acquires new brands & products to add, we search for the most sustainable and “best-in-class” ingredients, materials, and manufacturers. Primarily, we prioritize organically grown materials and ingredients, from natural & renewable fibres. Cleaning up the planet is just as important, and this is where our recycled products have been leading the industry. Offsetting the carbon footprint by reducing the manufacture of new materials and stopping millions of tons going to landfill.
Just as important as the materials that make up our products, we also look at how the brands we work with are built. What are their values? How do they show responsibility in the production of their products, the treatment of their workers, and the corners they refuse to cut? We also want to acknowledge that certifications cost money and sometimes create a barrier to entry when breaking into the sustainability industry. We know that some brands forgo certifications so that they can put money elsewhere into their company, such as paying employees living wages or investing in low-impact packaging. No matter their certification status, we seek out partners who are putting people and planet above profits.
Q: Tell us about your “1% for the Planet” commitment.
A: Through our 1% for the Planet commitment, every product from Ecosource goes the extra mile for our planet, and its people. 1% for the Planet® is a partnership of companies that understand just how important it is that we protect the world we live in. Its members are concerned with the social and environmental impacts of industry, and know they have a part to play themselves. Together, they pledge their commitment to greater corporate responsibility from businesses, uniting donors, and doers to help accelerate smart environmental giving. The 1% for the Planet® initiative operates as a non-profit organisation. It encourages businesses to help safeguard the environment by donating 1% of their turnover to grassroots environmental groups making a difference in their local communities. We love working with brands that align with our Vision & those that take it one step further, whether it’s a fellow 1% member, or a brand that works with underserved communities and differently abled people, we’re always thrilled to see a brand taking the initiative to improve our world.
Our mission is to be the most trusted source for top Sustainable brands and products for the promotional industry. We will lead by example and ultimately give more than we take.
Q: How long have you been an APPA member? Why did you decide to join the Association?
A: Ecosource only recently joined APPA. We decided to join APPA for a multitude of reasons, but the most prominent reasons are that APPA’s values align with ours:
Q: How important is sustainability to your business? How does this affect your business and the way it operates?
A: Sustainability is in our DNA and increasingly important to businesses as consumers, investors and governments are putting more pressure on companies to reduce their environmental and social impact. Sustainability can affect a business in multiple ways, such as reducing costs, increasing efficiency and innovation, improving reputation, and building brand loyalty, and complying with regulations. Companies who can align their operations with sustainable practices will be better positioned to meet the demands of stakeholders, future-proof their business, and thrive in the long-term.
Sustainability can change the way a business operates by shifting its focus from short-term financial gains to long-term social and environmental goals, and by requiring the implementation of new processes and technologies to meet these goals.
Q: What are the biggest challenges facing your business at the moment?
A: Managing growth – As a growing business we are currently going through extensive change. To manage growth and changes in a business strategically, it is important to maintain focus on goals, have a sense of purpose and cohesion, ensure adequate liquidity, and have accurate and reliable forecasts. Additionally, having a clear understanding of the business's current standing through accurate and realistic projections is vital for making informed decisions and effectively managing for growth. Managing for growth is a continuous process that requires ongoing attention to detail.
Q: What makes you stand out from your competitors?
A: Everything, what we do, how we do it and why we do it. We differentiate ourselves by clearly communicating our unique selling proposition (USP), highlighting our charitable initiatives and by offering a valuable loyalty program that reward our clients. Additionally, leading by example and focusing on making a difference, positioning ourselves as a socially responsible and ethical company. We are continuously improving and updating our products and services to meet our clients’ needs and driving change for future trends.
Q: What products/services will you be launching this year?
A: Ecosource will be launching a new website with more functionalities, reseller tools and innovative online learning platforms. New products will be uploaded to our site weekly, and the new brands will be a massive hit in the promo industry. Watch this space…
Q: What’s next for Ecosource?
A: Completing our B Corp and Climate Neutral Certification.
