Sustainability Matters: Sarah Robins, Banner's Sustainability Manager

Insight takes an in depth look at Sustainability and what it means for schoolwear retailers.

Sarah Robins knows more than a thing or two about the challenges facing our industry. As Sustainability Manager for Banner, she’s at the forefront of a policy for progress, so it’s no surprise that she’s deeply committed to making change for the good. But as we start our interview, she’s at pains to point out that sustainability needs to be what that word implies—a realistic and practical journey taken at a pace we can all sustain.

We began by asking what we thought were the critical questions. Why does sustainability matter so much? With all that’s happened these last twelve months, can’t we wait until the way ahead is clearer? And isn’t this really an issue for manufacturers, rather than retailers and schools…

‘Hold on a moment,’ she replies, ‘Sustainability is a huge subject, and it’s essential not to be overwhelmed or to try and solve it all in one fell swoop. But no, we can’t keep putting it off!’

‘Sustainability matters’, Sarah says, ‘Because if we ignore the future of our planet then we are actively allowing that change to occur. We have a responsibility to make a difference, and that means each of us committing to small adjustments, as much as it does our governments and policy makers pursuing bigger transformations.’

But isn’t that all a bit strategic – why is it so important for schoolwear retailers? After all, aren’t many of them small local businesses with limited impact already?

‘Good question,’ she replies, ‘but I’d turn it on its head. Schoolwear retailers are well known in their communities. What’s more, they have long-standing and loyal customers which means they’re ideally placed to have a lasting impact that’s good for business too.’

Sarah says there are two key reasons why retailers benefit from more sustainable practice.

‘Firstly, schools are now fully committed to sustainability and required to consider the impacts of contracts they award. That’s why there are precious few tenders today that don’t include questions on responsible practice. From reducing carbon impact to supporting Fair Trade and encouraging reuse and recycling schemes, there are a range of actions that retailers can take which will resonate with schools. And secondly, pupils and parents care too. Climate change is on every school curriculum and we know that young people rate sustainability as the issue that’s most important for their future. They want to be proud of what they wear and are more conscious then ever of where garments come from and how they are sold. It’s a great opportunity for businesses that care to build customer loyalty.’

So what about Banner – how are they working to help retailers and schools?

‘Like many businesses, we’ve made incremental progress over the years, but more recently we realised that we needed to show more leadership. So we’ve made bold commitments not only to driving changes, but also to improving transparency of our performance. It’s a big culture change and at times it can feel quite scary— but we know it’s the right direction for us and our customers.’

Last month Banner published its first annual sustainability report and Sarah says we should expect more detailed reporting in the future. It’s not just governments committing to targets—schools, parents and pupils will be looking for progress and supporting those who do the right thing.

Sarah concludes on an encouraging note, ‘The most important thing is to get started. It’s going to be a journey for all of us, and I’ve no doubt there will be steps and stumbles along the way. But like all journeys, it’s the first steps that are the hardest to make.’