Ulta Beauty joins sustainability non-profit
Ulta Beauty is increasing its focus on the environmental impact of the products it sells.
The leading beauty retailer is joining The Sustainability Consortium (TSC), a global non-profit organization dedicated to creating more sustainable consumer products. By doing so, Ulta Beauty is building on existing corporate sustainability initiatives at the store and product levels.
Operating more than 1,350 brick-and-mortar locations, the company’s sustainability efforts have included diverting 14,800 tons of waste from landfill and, in 2021, investing $1.6 million in energy management system retrofits while working toward greater sustainable packaging across its full product assortment.
In addition, the retailer operates the Conscious Beauty at Ulta Beauty initiative, which is designed to help consumers identify clean ingredients; as well as locate cruelty-free, vegan, and sustainably packaged brands and products.
As a member of TSC, Ulta Beauty will focus on engaging in consumer goods industry environmental impact efforts and leverage TSC’s science-based resources and tools. Ulta Beauty joins more than 100 TSC members working together on projects spanning topics such as plastic packaging and circularity.
“We are excited to join The Sustainability Consortium and its members in support of identifying and executing against solutions for sustainability – especially as it aligns to our ambition to create greater clarity across the industry relative to clean ingredients and sustainable packaging,” said Kristin Wolf, senior vice president, Enterprise Strategy and Transformation
“We are excited to welcome Ulta Beauty as a new TSC member and we look forward to supporting various ways to elevate the company’s sustainability efforts,” said Christy Slay, chief executive officer, TSC. “Ulta Beauty’s enthusiasm for deeper conversations on sustainability impact is a welcome addition to TSC’s endeavors, and I look forward to learning about their experience and unique perspective within our working groups and projects.”
Consumers want sustainable options
Ulta Beauty is taking part in TSC as data shows consumers are still willing to invest in eco-friendly options even as they cut back on discretionary spending. According to a recent survey of U.S. and U.K. consumers by Tata Consultancy Services, a large majority (86%) of U.S. respondents said that whether an item is made sustainably or sourced responsibly is of importance to them, with an average of 69% of all consumers surveyed saying they have recently paid more for sustainable products.
In exchange for rewards for sustainable choices, 62% of those consumers say they would be more inclined to spend with a given retailer.