CIRCULAR ECONOMY
CONTINUED What to highlight
like free recycling or carbon offsetting,” he adds. “Carbon-neutral printing, for instance, can help businesses cut down on their CO2 emissions. Resellers don’t need to have all the answers, but being able to point customers to these kinds of options shows you understand what matters to them, and it’s a great way to build trust. “We’re seeing an increase, especially from public sector customers, requesting more information on their CO2 emissions. For these customers resellers can suggest our new MZ7001 SRA3 Series which provides a graphical display of power consumption and CO2 emissions during operation of the device.” Growing importance Commentators agreed that the circular economy will continue to grow in importance in the coming years. “The circular economy isn’t a passing trend, it’s a fundamental shift in how products are made, used, re-used and recovered,” says Dan. “For resellers, this presents a real opportunity. Those that embed circular economy principles into their offering can build stronger relationships, offer more value-led propositions, and help customers meet increasingly complex sustainability goals.” Steve adds that the circular economy is becoming embedded in procurement policies, ESG reporting and legislation. “Businesses are under growing pressure to demonstrate measurable sustainability progress, and the print sector is part of that picture,” he says. “Resellers who can support customers through that shift with practical advice
When talking with customers about sustainability in print and the circular economy, resellers should focus on certain aspects. For instance, the practical value it delivers to businesses in terms of sustainability and cost efficiency should be mentioned, according to Dan. “Customers increasingly want to know how their print infrastructure can support their wider environmental targets, and resellers are in a prime position to provide that guidance,” he adds. “It’s important to explain how sustainable print technologies help reduce unnecessary waste, such as through fewer consumables, longer service intervals, and devices that are built to last. But equally, resellers should position themselves as partners in helping customers take action, whether that’s through recommending extended-warranty products, helping implement a return or recycling scheme, or encouraging the use of refurbished equipment where appropriate.” Gillian adds that Konica Minolta provides customers with tools that help them monitor and manage their environmental footprint and support them with practical advice. “Our Eco Calculator is a web- based tool that enables organisations to measure the carbon footprint and paper consumption of their print devices,” she adds. “Our ‘Switch On Power Save – Rethink the Way You Print’ provides practical advice on how customers can get the most from their Konica Minolta bizhub devices, while at the same time reducing energy consumption and focusing on the most efficient way to print.” Steve says that resellers should draw attention to things like the materials used in devices, how easy they are to maintain and what happens to them at the end of their life. “Customers are also increasingly interested in services
Gillian Nuttall people and culture ESG partner
konicaminolta.co.uk
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By embracing circularity, businesses can reduce their environmental footprint while creating new opportunities for growth and innovation.
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and solutions will stand out. It’s a chance for them to be a part of the conversation and stay ahead of the curve.” n
printinthechannel.co.uk
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