Almost 70% of Irish adults would pay more to buy from responsible companies
Dublin 10 August 2015: 69% of adults in Ireland have stated that they are more likely to buy from companies that act in a responsible way, even when compared with cheaper ‘less responsible’ options. This research highlights that responsibility and business growth can work in tandem.
- 69% of Irish people said they are more likely to buy from a responsible firm, rather than a cheaper alternative that was not
- Just 1 in 4 believe that the majority of businesses in the Republic of Ireland operate in a responsible manner
- Irish workers are most attracted to companies that offer good working conditions (61%), a positive culture (53%) and a good work/life balance (52%).
- Less than a third (31%) said that regular pay rises are very important
- Online survey commissioned by Ricoh polled more than 1,000 adults (16+) across Ireland
Gary Hopwood General Manager Ricoh Ireland
The survey reveals Irish people’s viewpoints on the overall culture and practices of Irish businesses, and what they believe makes a responsible business today. The research also highlighted that only 1 in 4 believes that the majority of businesses in Ireland operate in a responsible manner.
The YouGov research polled 1,072 adults (16+) from across the Republic of Ireland. This nationally representative survey was commissioned by global technology company, Ricoh, as part of its Responsible Growth initiative.
Findings revealed that Irish workers are most attracted to companies which offer good working conditions (61%), a positive culture (53%) and a good work/life balance (52%). Surprisingly, regular pay rises ranked lowest with less than a third (31%) citing it as important.
When asked what a business needs to do to be considered a responsible business, the highest priority was treating employees well (75%), including not abusing their rights. The next highest priorities were being honest about products and pricing (74%); following the law (62%); paying the right amount of tax (59%) and reducing environmental impact where they can (56%).
The research also revealed that the not-for-profit/charity sector is perceived to act most responsibly. This was followed in second place by the technology sector, with the retail and healthcare sectors in joint third.
Gary Hopwood, general manager, Ricoh Ireland, comments on the findings:
“There is clearly a need for Irish businesses to act more responsibly as they look to grow. The most successful firms promote a positive working culture and place people at the heart of everything they do. Employees are now looking for much more than just a pay packet at the end of the month from their employers. Businesses need to recognise this and provide them with great working environments and a work/life balance that meets their needs.
“Irish business leaders now have an exciting opportunity to prove they can deliver responsible growth, providing economic security along with support for employees, communities and society. Our research shows that responsibility can promote business growth and also help businesses become an employer of choice.
Tina Roche, chief executive, Business in the Community Ireland, also comments:
“This research highlights the changing expectations of employees and consumers in Ireland.They now want to work with and buy from more responsible and sustainable businesses. Being a good corporate citizen has become an essential part of growth and success for any organisation. Irish employers need to become much more proactive and measured about their CSR strategies and activities. We ask Irish companies to rise to both the challenge and opportunity that currently exists. Our vision is that businesses in Ireland will become the most responsible and sustainable in the world.”
Ricoh is a member of Business in the Community Ireland.
About the research:
All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. Total sample size was 1,072 adults. Fieldwork was undertaken between 28th May – 4th June 2015. The survey was carried out online. The figures have been weighted and are representative of all adults in the Republic of Ireland (aged 16+). Visit Ricoh’s website to download a copy of the report.
About Ricoh
Ricoh is a global technology company specialising in office imaging equipment, production print solutions, document management systems and IT services. Headquartered in Tokyo, Ricoh Group operates in about 200 countries and regions. In the financial year ending March 2015, Ricoh Group had worldwide sales of 2,231 billion yen based on the IFRS accounting standard (approx. 18.5 billion USD).
The majority of the company’s revenue comes from products, solutions and services that improve the interaction between people and information. Ricoh also produces award-winning digital cameras and specialized industrial products. It is known for the quality of its technology, the exceptional standard of its customer service and sustainability initiatives.
Under its corporate tagline, imagine. change. Ricoh helps companies transform the way they work and harness the collective imagination of their employees.
For further information, please visit www.ricoh.ie
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