Commercial wins European office sustainability award

This week, Commercial, picked up another award that recognises its commitment to sustainability and social value. The business won the new Sustainability Award in the 19th European Office Products Awards (EOPA), which were announced at the Hotel Okura in Amsterdam on Monday 9 March 2020.

In a new category for EOPA this year, Commercial impressed the judges with its completely ingrained sustainability focus. From an initial goal, 14 years ago, to address Commercial’s direct contribution to climate change from greenhouse gas emissions, its focus has broadened and now encompasses every aspect of corporate social responsibility.

Judges said: "Sustainability is truly the beating heart of Commercial. A purpose driven business that consciously considers the potential impact on the environment and society of its operations and products, and seeks opportunities to deliver tangible positive outcomes."

Commercial has gained accolades including The Queens Award for Enterprise in Sustainable Development, Planet Mark and Carbon Neutral status. Managing Director, Simone Hindmarch, was shortlisted for edie Sustainability Leader of the Year earlier this year, cementing the organisation’s reputation for changing business to improve the world.

Simone said: “We’ve been pushing the boundaries since 2006 to provide an exceptional service to our clients while reducing our environmental impact, making a valuable contribution to society, and looking after our colleagues. I’m immensely proud of all that we’ve achieved. It is wonderful to collect an award for sustainability in our office products – just one aspect of our social impact programme.

“For us, growing our social impact goes alongside growing our business and we have a brilliant team, deserving of recognition for bringing our aspirations to life.”

Commenting on this year’s EOPA, OPI CEO Steve Hilleard, who is also the Chairman of the EOPA judging panel, said: “For the 19th time this year, leaders from the European business supplies sector came together to reward the best of what our industry has to offer – innovative products, inspiring campaigns and initiatives, and outstanding companies and individuals.

We’re fast approaching the 20th EOPA anniversary and I’m always amazed and humbled by the enthusiasm our sector continues to show for these awards, from the companies that are so eager to take a coveted award back to their organisations to the judges who willingly and passionately give up their time to seek out the best.”