Sea levels are rising faster than they have in 28 centuries.
Temperatures and annual precipitation is also growing. We can
expect more extreme and dangerous weather in the future. How should
retail business leaders prepare for this change? How can
retailers help lessen the impacts of climate change?
Retailers like Starbucks have made a business case for
sustainability, by showing that it will also lessen operating
costs. Being greener also aligns with the values of many of its
customers. This creates a halo around the brand that keeps
shoppers loyal.
Research analyst David Barnett dug into climate change in the
Retailer's Guide to the Galaxy report. He wrote that
retail property owners are now seeing more property damages
from severe weather like flooding and violent storms.
A drought in California can affect food prices around the
world. Disruptions to supply chains delay goods from
getting to stores and warehouses.
Consumer behavior has also shifted in response to
new weather patterns. In the near term, this will mean a shift
in timing of the sales of warm and cold-weather
clothing.
Where We Buy is a show about the things we buy and the places we buy them. Listen in as we tour top retail places and talk to fascinating people. James Cook researches retail and real estate for JLL.