Balancing Sustainability and Profitability

One of the most impressive aspects of Pilot’s strategy is its dedication to continuously improving its production processes. Julien shared that their bestselling pens, Frixion and G2, now include recycled materials, a significant achievement given the complexities of working with different raw materials.

The Role of Akeneo: Supporting Sustainability with Seamless Product Information Management

As sustainability initiatives become more complex, the need for efficient management of product information across multiple channels and markets grows. This is where Akeneo steps in, providing robust Product Information Management (PIM) solutions that help brands like Asket and Pilot streamline their processes.

For Asket, ensuring transparency and educating consumers about their product’s environmental impact requires managing vast amounts of detailed product information. Akeneo’s PIM system allows Asket to store, organize, and distribute this information effectively, ensuring that every garment’s story is accurately conveyed to the consumer. As Vidar noted, “Before we had a PIM, we stored all of this information in Excel and Google Sheets, which was cumbersome and inefficient. With Akeneo, we can now manage and share product data seamlessly.”

Pilot also benefits from Akeneo’s PIM solution in maintaining consistency across its extensive distribution network. Julien emphasized, “We manage product information in 18 languages and across 26 subsidiaries. Akeneo’s PIM makes it easier for us to provide complete, accurate, and up-to-date product information to all stakeholders, ensuring that our sustainability message is not lost in translation.”

Akeneo not only helps these brands manage their current product information but also supports their future growth and sustainability initiatives. As these companies expand globally, Akeneo’s scalable solutions ensure that their product data remains consistent and accessible, no matter where their products are sold.

The Road Ahead: Integrating Sustainability into Business Strategy

Both Asket and Pilot have shown that integrating sustainability into business strategies is possible and can drive innovation and customer loyalty. However, they also acknowledge the challenges that come with this journey.

For Asket, the challenge lies in maintaining transparency and educating consumers about the impact of their choices. As Vidar pointed out, “It’s important to understand that sustainability is a journey. You don’t wake up one day and say, ‘Hey, we are sustainable.’ It takes time and continuous effort.”

Pilot, on the other hand, faces the challenge of ensuring consistent product information across its extensive distribution network. Julien emphasized the importance of empowering subsidiaries and distributors with the right tools and knowledge to support their sustainability goals. “It’s a real challenge to ensure that end users receive complete and fresh information. We must consider every actor in the distribution chain,” he said.

A Collective Effort Toward a Sustainable Future

The experiences of Asket and Pilot highlight the importance of a collective effort in achieving sustainability. Whether it’s through educating consumers, innovating production processes, or ensuring transparency across the supply chain, every step counts.

As businesses continue to navigate the complexities of sustainability and profitability, the lessons from Asket and Pilot offer a roadmap for others to follow. By prioritizing sustainability, companies not only contribute to a better planet but also build stronger, more resilient businesses for the future.

As Vidar aptly put it, “Building to last—both in terms of products and business strategies—requires thinking about the entire lifecycle, from design to production to end-of-life.” It’s a philosophy that all businesses should embrace as they chart their course towards a sustainable future.

Ready to revolutionize your approach to sustainability and product experience? Download our exclusive white paper on the PX Revolution to discover how you can align your business with the latest consumer trends and combat reckless consumerism with enhanced sustainable product experiences. Download now and take the next step towards a more sustainable future for your brand!