Clients, CSR actors
to date, CSR regulations for the visual communication sector only concern energy-related products, defined by standards and directives. However, according to several studies, customers in this sector have been asking for more commitments and certifications from their suppliers in recent years in terms of eco-design and recyclability.
Some companies would also take initiatives in prioritizing a more sustainable and respectful design of their devices.
- 79% of SMEs in France state that they are questioned by their principals on CSR issues.
- 61% of suppliers recognize that their customers' CSR demands lead them to improve their offer and processes and can represent a source of new opportunities.
(source: Bpifrance, PwC, CSR Observatory)
Testimonials from signage and visual communication companies
For Duo Display (34), one of the world leaders in the modular stand and display sector, the objective is to " stop thinking in one shot ". The company's strategy is organized from the sourcing of its raw materials, then around the repairability, rental and reuse of its products.
Nojac Signs (78) carries out rigorous sorting on a daily basis and constantly ensures that its waste (batteries, paper, inks, PMMA, Dibond, Alu, WEEE, etc.) is processed in an appropriate way. The company directs its actions towards recycling and reuse via donations to organizations, but also through its premises in terms of energy saving and manufacturing process.
Impri'Média (22), a printer of all formats and advertising marking, relies on reuse and upcycling: exclusive use of kraft adhesive tape and reuse of liners and films for packaging, donations of cores, tarpaulins, "reel bottoms" and adhesive scraps.
For the communication agency Cassiopub (15), " the main idea is to avoid any waste ". To limit its impact, it optimizes amalgam printing, groups its orders in order to limit deliveries, and valorizes its adhesive scraps by printing stickers for its customers.
The CSR indicator: the Holy Grail of recognition?
A multitude of other companies of all sizes are also joining this desire to deploy eco-designed alternative solutions and to adopt a strategy based on the circular economy. However, concerning the evaluation of CSR scoring, it is often the principals who impose these labels and certificates (Ecovadis, Print Ethic, Iso 14001, etc.) on printers, requiring a lot of human and financial energy. Smaller companies, even if they share and respect these commitments, cannot always subsidize this recognition.
A CSR label accessible to all
Print Ethic was designed by printers for printers, based on ISO 26000. The process is designed to be accessible to small companies, both financially (no auditing, labeling or support costs) and in terms of time spent. The branch organizes a individualized support through IDEP this is a resource center for the sector, to help companies who wish to initiate and progress in their approach. And the motivations of the leaders who commit themselves are certainly to meet the expectations of their customers, but also to contribute to respond to societal and environmental issues which are crucial to the sustainability of their business.
