Sustainable Development: Adidas and Zara rise in Interbrand’s rankings

By

Matthieu Guinebault

Published
Jun 26, 2014

This year, the German sports equipment company and the Spanish apparel giant were among the companies that rose the most in Interbrand’s Best Global Green Brands rankings. L'Oréal, Nike, H & M, Avon and Colgate also figured among the 50 brands that make up the ranking.

Zara rose from the 48th to the 34th position. Interbrand said that the brand is committed to implementing sustainable practices, and has introduced a waste management policy across its flagship stores, as well as training staff in sustainable practices. "By 2020, all of Zara’s existing stores around the world aim to be 100 percent eco-efficient," says Interbrand. "Zara’s ongoing improvements have translated into a strong performance and perception scores, making it the top-rising brand in 2014, along with IKEA."

With its four-part “Fair Play” approach to sustainability, Adidas rose from 15th to 8th. "Whether it is sourcing and developing more environmentally-friendly materials, enforcing basic employee and human rights or reducing water use and pollution, Adidas’ four pillars provide a conceptual framework that enables its stakeholders to better understand, assess and realize the multinational footwear and sportswear company’s sustainability goals," said Interbrand.