EuroCommerce and CSR
Corporate Social Responsibility
Corporate Social Responsibility, as defined by the European Commission, is a concept "whereby companies integrate social and environmental concerns in their business operations and in their interaction with their stakeholders on a voluntary basis". From EuroCommerce's point of view, it is precisely this voluntary approach which allows for creativity: it enables companies to take inspiration from the best practice of others, to adopt such practices themselves or to adapt them to their own sector and circumstances.
EuroCommerce's engagement
Commerce, as the link between producers and citizens, is particularly interested in CSR issues and able to pass on consumer concerns. At the same time, commerce companies contribute to the economic, social and environmental improvement of their towns, countries and regions. They also, as international traders in goods and services, are uniquely situated to engage with stakeholders in Europe and worldwide. Many companies work in close partnership with local governments, business networks, trade unions and NGOs to ensure fair working conditions and environmental standards throughout their supply chains.
From the outset, EuroCommerce has contributed actively to the debate about CSR at European level and in 2001, we set up a CSR Experts Group. EuroCommerce members meet regularly three to four times per year to discuss topical issues, exchange experiences and meet with stakeholders. In addition, EuroCommerce participated in the European Multi-Stakeholder Forum on CSR which was set up by the European Commission in 2002. EuroCommerce is also a strong supporter of the voluntary business network, the European Alliance for CSR.
Social Dialogue
Last but not least, CSR is also a major issue for the social dialogue in the commerce sector. In November 2003, UNI-Europa Commerce and EuroCommerce were among the first social partners to sign a joint agreement on CSR. Furthermore, the social partners in the commerce sector successfully organised a conference with the support of the European Commission, bringing together some 150 corporate leaders and trade unionists.
Opportunities and Challenges
Engagement in CSR offers manifold market opportunities for companies in the commerce sector. For example, offering environmentally friendly products meets a rising demand from consumers, while energy-saving measures as well as proper risk management help companies reduce their costs and gain competitive advantages.
Nonetheless, serious challenges remain such as climate change and limited access to resources, coupled with the increasingly difficult economic climate. Moreover, globalisation and the need to fulfil internationally agreed social and environmental standards, requires a transparent supply chain management structure, involving all actors and including subcontractors.
