The Consumer Goods Forum (CGF) has published its annual report, outlining how collaboration across the retail and consumer goods sector is translating into measurable outcomes in areas such as sustainability, human rights, climate action and food waste reduction.
The report, entitled From Ambition to Execution: Building Resilient Consumer Goods Value Chains, outlines how the CGF is supporting its network of industry leaders – from 380 organisations across 70 countries – in driving positive change.
This includes progress on sustainability, with some 1,200 suppliers now engaged in deforestation- and conversion free internal assessments, as well as ‘significant traction’ reported in the development of industry-wide packaging standards.
On human rights, meanwhile, 91% of the CGF’s human rights coalition members now operate mature due diligence systems, representing a ‘major step forward’ in tackling the issue of forced labour.
The CGF also noted that the introduction of a new Common Data Framework is assisting companies with simplifying sustainability reporting and accelerating their decarbonisation efforts, while data-driven initiatives are also unlocking new efficiencies when it comes to tackling food waste.
‘Commitment and resolve’
“Despite another year of economic and geopolitical shifts, our members continue to show their commitment and resolve – which is testament to the agility and resilience of the industry,” commented Wai-Chan Chan, managing director of the Consumer Goods Forum.
“Looking ahead, CGF will continue to focus on execution, digital innovation, and regional growth – ensuring collaboration leads to tangible impacts for businesses, consumers, and communities alike. Our desire to drive better lives through better business is stronger than ever.”
The Adaptive Edge
The report also highlights the increasing importance of artificial intelligence, with members using AI to transform demand forecasting, optimise logistics, enhance retail experiences and unlock new efficiencies.
The CGF noted that it is supporting its members to move beyond experimentation toward scalable, standards-based AI deployment, while also addressing challenges such as data quality, interoperability and cybersecurity. AI, and the broader technology landscape, will be a central theme of the forthcoming CGF Global Summit, taking place in Vienna this June, which will bear the theme The Adaptive Edge: Leveraging Technology & AI for Business Impact and Sustainability.
Collectively, the CGF’s members represent €5.2 trillion in combined sales.
“Looking ahead, the CGF will continue to focus on execution, digital innovation, and regional growth – ensuring collaboration leads to tangible impacts for businesses, consumers, and communities alike,” Chan added. “Our desire to drive better lives through better business is stronger than ever.” Read more here.
