As Bob Dylan once sang the times, they are a’changing.
Well, let’s be honest, in retail they are always changing but there’s one big shift that’s happening that it pays to take notice of - and that’s the importance of sustainability.
Of course price, choice, and convenience are always going to influence our purchasing decisions but how sustainable a product is, is quickly on the rise.
According to PwC, more than four-fifths (80%) of consumers say they are willing to pay more for sustainable produced or sourced goods. In terms of a price premium, some consumers are willing to pay on average 9.7% more for goods that meet specific environmental criteria, including locally-sourced, made from recycled or eco-friendly materials, produced in a supply chain with a lower carbon footprint, and more.
As consumers become more eco-conscious and regulations tighten, the retail industry finds itself at a crossroads. With 25% of global greenhouse gas emissions linked to the sector, the need for change is urgent. But sustainability isn’t just about cutting emissions; it’s about reimagining how retail operates, from supply chains to storefronts.
The good news? Technology is stepping up to the challenge. Tools like point of sale (POS) systems and order management systems (OMS) are no longer just operational essentials - they’re becoming key players in building greener, smarter, and more efficient retail ecosystems. These innovations are helping retailers optimize inventory, embrace circular economy practices, reduce waste, and empower customers to make sustainable choices.
Our friend’s at OneStock have, together with us at Sitoo, Bloomreach, Akeneo and Cloudinary, put a white paper together exploring everything you need to know about sustainability.
When it comes to how a POS system can help you be more sustainable, here’s the key takeaways:
1. Turning your stores into fulfillment centers
POS systems integrated with OMS enable in-store fulfillment, meaning your stores can become local fulfillment centres. This approach reduces carbon emissions by minimizing shipping distances and enabling eco-friendly delivery options. This integration not only improves efficiency but also provides customers with greener shopping options.
2. Driving more informed shopping decisions
Customers know a lot. They are more informed than they ever have been before. But they still want to know more - particularly things like an item’s provenance. When rich product information is available directly through your POS, your store associates have instant access to product data including materials, origins, and sustainability certifications. In addition, POS systems use customer data to offer personalized recommendations, encouraging informed decision-making and greater engagement with sustainable products.
3. Smarter inventory management
Inventory management becomes significantly more efficient with POS systems, as they provide a unified view of stock across warehouses, stores, and suppliers. This comprehensive visibility reduces overproduction by ensuring that supply matches demand. Real-time sales data generated by POS systems also allows retailers to redistribute inventory to locations where it is most likely to sell, helping to minimize waste and improve profitability.
4. Supporting circular practices
POS systems are instrumental in supporting circular economy initiatives like resale and rental programs. By categorizing products based on their condition, they streamline the resale process, ensuring seamless customer interactions. Additionally, POS systems facilitate repair services by generating digital records for service orders, offering traceability and transparency. This helps retailers extend product lifecycles and reduce waste.
Nudie Jeans are a market-leader here with their Repair Shops. If you want to take a deeper-dive into how they do it, go read our article with their Circular Product Manager, Kevin Gelsi.
In summary
The road to sustainability in retail is challenging, but it’s also paved with opportunity. As consumer expectations evolve and environmental pressures intensify, tools like POS systems are proving to be invaluable allies. From reducing carbon emissions through OMS integration to empowering customers with transparent product data, POS technology is helping retailers turn sustainability goals into actionable realities.
By embracing smarter inventory practices, supporting circular economy initiatives, and improving energy efficiency, you can do more than just reduce their environmental impact - you can build stronger customer relationships and create lasting value. The integration of sustainability and technology isn’t just a trend; it’s the foundation of a retail ecosystem that’s resilient, responsible, and ready for the future.
Download the whitepaper and dive deeper into the topic of sustainability in retail.
Last updated: March 28, 2025