Sustainable sourcing of natural resources

Action operates a vast and intricate global supply chain, spanning 14 diverse product categories. We hold a steadfast commitment to environmental stewardship, human rights, and fair labour practices. Recognising our capacity to foster positive social and environmental outcomes through our global supply chain, we prioritise transparency and accountability. Essential to sustainable sourcing is a thorough understanding of the origins and production methods of the products we procure. That’s why we’re dedicated to achieving full technical transparency for private and white label products, urging suppliers to align with our rigorous sourcing policies[DW1] [DW2] . We actively map our products to their respective factories and gauge our impact by monitoring the percentage of factories assessed for their social and environmental practices.

Packaging

We embrace our responsibility to reduce the waste impact of packaging by making choices about alternative packaging, using different materials, less packaging material, phasing out non-recyclable packaging, and replacing plastic packaging where possible with more sustainable materials such as wood, paper and cardboard, or using another design. In 2022, we achieved our target of 100% recyclable packaging in our private label assortment. By 2025, we aim that 100% of our primary packaging to be made from recyclable materials.

Circularity

When we buy a product, we consider its circularity – i.e., how much recycled material it contains, or whether the product itself is recyclable. The more recyclable our products, the less goes to waste. To enhance our commitment to circularity, we’re focusing on enhancing at least five products from each of our top 50 items across 14 product categories. This strategic approach allows us to enact meaningful change on a significant scale. Already, we’ve successfully improved products across ten categories. Using the Circular Transition Indicators framework, we evaluate the circularity of these products by examining their design, usage, and end-of-life stages. Depending on each product’s functionality, we identify specific circular improvements to implement. We have made significant improvements in linen, hobby and garden & outdoor products. Examples include our Comfibed duvets, containing 100% recycled polyester filling, our Sologic charging cable, made of more sustainable textile braiding, and our Van Bleiswijck paint tubes, made off 30% recycled content. To reduce waste, we are also looking to make it easier to repair our electronic goods. And under our Responsible Plastics Policy, we want to increase the share of recycled plastic in our products to 35% by the end of 2025.

We build strong supplier partnerships ​

Around 44% of our supplies originate from Europe; in fact, in several countries, we sell products of local origin. We also source products from China, India and other countries in Asia. Currently, we are looking to buy more products from wholesalers and importers closer to our stores to avoid possible supply disruptions and reduce our transport costs and environmental impact. We apply the same strict quality and production standards, irrespective of the source of our products.

We look to build long-term relationships with our suppliers – to ensure product quality and availability. Some of our suppliers have been with Action since we started in 1993. Four suppliers tell their inspiring stories about working for and with Action for so long.​