In the dynamic landscape of Indian commerce, a profound shift is underway—a merging of 'Make in India' and sustainability. This transformation is reshaping the way businesses operate and how consumers perceive their choices. At the forefront of this movement stand three iconic brands—IKEA, Taneira, and The Body Shop—each weaving their unique narratives into the fabric of a greener, more sustainable future for the nation.

IKEA: Championing Sustainability in Every Thread

IKEA's commitment to sustainability is deeply ingrained in its core values and business operations, both globally and in India. The founder's dedication to smart resource management continues to guide IKEA's sustainability journey. With a rich history of sourcing from India for over 40 years, IKEA actively contributes to the local manufacturing landscape, fostering economic growth.

Innovative flat-pack furniture concepts reduce CO2 emissions and promote sustainability. Transitioning to LED bulbs, rechargeable batteries, and renewable energy sources are key initiatives in IKEA's sustainability roadmap. Incorporating renewable and recycled materials in product manufacturing and promoting prolonged product usage to support a circular economy is central to IKEA's sustainability initiatives.

“At present, 56 percent of the materials used across our entire range are renewable, with an additional 17 percent being recycled. As a society, the transition to 'circular economics is inevitable, and at IKEA, it is our constant endeavour to align with this shift. Ensuring that every product we manufacture incorporates renewable and recycled materials, we collaborate with numerous suppliers, including many from India. We actively support our customers in making sustainable choices by encouraging prolonged product usage,” said Nikita Vaz, Country Sustainability Manager, IKEA India.

Taneira: Empowering Artisans, Preserving Heritage

Taneira's ethos revolves around empowering local artisans and preserving India's diverse textile heritage. Upgrading the skills of weavers and providing them with safe and hygienic workplaces through initiatives like the Weavershala program is central to Taneira's mission. Its stores are immersive experiences that pay homage to India's rich artistic heritage, showcasing diverse cultural legacies.

Taneira's collaboration with an Austrian company to offer plant-based sarees caters to evolving consumer preferences for sustainability. Actively seeking feedback and leveraging insights to tailor product offerings to meet the diverse needs of customers is a cornerstone of Taneira's approach. Blending tradition with modernity, the brand creates a seamless shopping journey that resonates with customers nationwide.

"Our stores are not mere retail spaces; they are immersive experiences that pay homage to India's rich artistic heritage." From the intricate Dhokra art adorning the walls of stores in Bhubaneshwar to the vibrant Madhubani paintings adorning outlets in Patna, each store is a celebration of India's diverse cultural legacy,” stated Ambuj Narayan, CEO, Taneira.

“With each new store, we reaffirm our commitment to preserving India's cultural heritage and shaping a brighter future for generations to come,” he added.

The Body Shop: Redefining Beauty with Sustainability

The Body Shop has recently achieved 100 percent vegan product formulations certified by the Vegan Society. The brand came up with the Activist Makeup collection, which reflects The Body Shop’s commitment to sustainability through the range of skincare and color cosmetics. All the products in the Activist Makeup collection are formulated with ethically sourced ingredients, 95 percent of which are from natural origin.

Recently, it has launched its new fragrance range, ‘Full Flowers’. Full Flowers is a range of Eaux de Parfum that immerses consumers in the world of blossoming flowers. Certified by The Vegan Society, each of the 4 scents in the collection celebrates nature's beauty and authenticity.

The Body Shop's Activist Workshop stores and sustainable product design reflect its commitment to environmental progressiveness. The brand plans to expand its presence in India with a focus on Tier III and IV cities and introducing more Activist Workshop stores. “Embracing omnichannel strategies to achieve two-fold growth in e-commerce business and offering convenience through various digital platforms is a key part of our approach,” asserted Vishal Chaturvedi, Vice President, The Body Shop Asia South.

Forging a Greener Future

IKEA, Taneira, and The Body Shop are partnering with local artisans, suppliers, and retailers to drive sustainable practices and support local economies. Initiatives like sustainable living shops and interactive experiences in-store aim to inform and educate consumers about leading sustainable lifestyles. By championing sustainability and social responsibility, these brands are paving the way for a greener, more sustainable future for India and beyond.

A Better Tomorrow, Today

In the convergence of 'Make in India' and sustainability, lies the promise of a brighter, more sustainable future. Through their unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship and social responsibility, brands like IKEA, Taneira, and The Body Shop are not just selling products—they're shaping a new paradigm of conscious consumption and sustainable living. As consumers increasingly demand eco-friendly and socially responsible products, these brands stand ready to lead the charge towards a greener, more sustainable India for generations to come.