#C2C-certification

[gonzalez756]

Starting an e-commerce business can be an exciting venture with immense potential. However, with the opportunities come challenges and uncertainties. Before diving into the world of online retail, it’s crucial to plan carefully and set a solid foundation. Here are some essential tips to consider before launching your e-commerce business:

1. Conduct Market Research

Understanding the market is fundamental to any successful business. Start by identifying your target audience and analyzing competitors. Research trends, customer preferences, and potential gaps in the market. Tools like Google Trends, social media analytics, and industry reports can provide valuable insights. This research will help you tailor your products or services to meet market demands and differentiate yourself from competitors.

2. Define Your Business Model

E-commerce offers various business models, such as B2C (Business to Consumer), B2B (Business to Business), C2C (Consumer to Consumer), and subscription-based models. Determine which model aligns with your goals and resources. Each model has its own set of challenges and requirements, so choose one that best fits your product or service and target market.

3. Create a Solid Business Plan

A comprehensive business plan serves as a roadmap for your e-commerce venture. Outline your business goals, strategies, target audience, marketing plan, financial projections, and operational plan. This document will not only guide your efforts but also help secure funding if needed. A clear plan can keep you focused and organized as you navigate the complexities of launching and running an e-commerce business.

4. Choose the Right E-Commerce Platform

Selecting the right e-commerce platform is crucial for the success of your online store. Popular platforms like Shopify, WooCommerce, Magento, and BigCommerce each offer unique features and capabilities. Consider factors such as ease of use, scalability, customization options, payment gateways, and integration with other tools. The platform should align with your business needs and provide a user-friendly experience for both you and your customers.

5. Develop a User-Friendly Website

Your website is the face of your e-commerce business. Ensure it’s designed to be user-friendly, visually appealing, and optimized for mobile devices. A clean, intuitive layout with easy navigation will enhance the shopping experience and reduce cart abandonment rates. Focus on high-quality images, detailed product descriptions, and a seamless checkout process. Additionally, implement search engine optimization (SEO) strategies to improve your site’s visibility in search engines.

6. Implement Secure Payment Processing

Security is a top priority in e-commerce. Customers need to trust that their payment information is safe. Choose a reputable payment gateway and ensure your website uses SSL certificates to encrypt data. Additionally, offer multiple payment options, including credit/debit cards, digital wallets, and other payment methods that are popular with your target audience.

7. Plan Your Logistics and Supply Chain

Efficient logistics and supply chain management are vital for e-commerce success. Develop a strategy for inventory management, warehousing, and shipping. Decide whether you’ll handle fulfillment in-house or partner with third-party logistics providers. Consider shipping options, delivery times, and costs. A smooth and reliable fulfillment process can significantly impact customer satisfaction and repeat business.

8. Craft a Marketing Strategy

Effective marketing is essential to drive traffic and sales to your e-commerce store. Develop a multi-channel marketing strategy that includes social media, email marketing, content marketing, and paid advertising. Create engaging content, run promotions, and leverage social media platforms to build brand awareness and attract customers. Monitor and analyze the performance of your marketing efforts to refine your strategies over time.

9. Focus on Customer Service

Exceptional customer service can set your e-commerce business apart from competitors. Provide multiple channels for customer support, such as live chat, email, and phone. Ensure timely responses to inquiries and resolve issues promptly. Building strong customer relationships and encouraging feedback can enhance customer loyalty and drive positive reviews.

10. Monitor and Adapt

The e-commerce landscape is constantly evolving. Regularly review your business performance, track key metrics, and gather customer feedback. Stay informed about industry trends and technological advancements. Be prepared to adapt your strategies and operations based on insights and changes in the market.

[dmm2929]

How do you handle sustainability certifications like LEED and environmental standards in interior design offices?

must adapt their practices to meet stringent sustainability certifications and environmental standards. Achieving certifications like LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is not only about aligning with global sustainability goals but also creating healthier, more efficient, and aesthetically pleasing spaces. In this blog, we'll explore how interior design offices can effectively handle sustainability certifications and environmental standards.

1. Education and Awareness:

Before diving into sustainability certifications, it's crucial to educate your team and raise awareness about the importance of environmentally conscious design. Make sustainability a core value in your office culture, encouraging staff to stay updated on the latest trends and best practices in green design.

2. Incorporate Sustainable Design Principles:

To achieve sustainability certifications like LEED, your interior design projects must align with eco-friendly design principles. Consider aspects such as energy efficiency, water conservation, materials selection, indoor air quality, and waste reduction. This may require innovative solutions like energy-efficient lighting, low-VOC paints, and sustainable furniture choices.

3. Set Clear Sustainability Goals:

Define specific sustainability goals for each project and ensure that your team is on the same page regarding these objectives. Whether it's reducing energy consumption, maximizing natural light, or sourcing materials from sustainable suppliers, clearly established goals provide a roadmap for success.

4. Partner with Eco-Friendly Suppliers:

Collaborate with suppliers who prioritize sustainability. This includes sourcing materials, finishes, and furnishings from suppliers with recognized environmental certifications and those that promote responsible production and transportation practices.

5. LEED Certification:

If your project aims to achieve LEED certification, engage with a LEED-accredited professional or consult with a sustainability expert who can guide you through the certification process. They can help assess your project's eligibility, identify sustainable design opportunities, and navigate the intricacies of LEED documentation.

6. Select Sustainable Materials:

Material selection plays a pivotal role in achieving sustainability certifications. Opt for materials with a low environmental impact, such as reclaimed wood, recycled metal, or low-VOC finishes. Additionally, consider products with third-party certifications like Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) or Cradle to Cradle (C2C) to guarantee their sustainability.

7. Energy Efficiency:

Incorporate energy-efficient design elements into your projects, such as LED lighting, occupancy sensors, and smart HVAC systems. By minimizing energy consumption, you not only reduce the environmental footprint but also help clients save on operating costs.

8. Waste Reduction:

Implement waste reduction strategies throughout the project's lifecycle. This includes careful planning to minimize construction waste, recycling and reusing materials, and considering end-of-life scenarios for products used in the design.

9. Indoor Air Quality:

Ensure that the indoor air quality of your designs is exceptional. Specify low-VOC (volatile organic compounds) paints, adhesives, and finishes, and promote effective ventilation systems to provide occupants with clean and healthy air.

10. Document and Monitor Progress:

Effective documentation is essential for sustainability certifications. Maintain detailed records of your project's sustainability efforts and their outcomes. Regularly monitor and evaluate your progress to identify areas for improvement.

11. Stay Current with Regulations:

Sustainability standards and regulations evolve over time. It's essential to stay informed about local, national, and global changes in environmental standards and compliance requirements, ensuring that your office remains up-to-date with industry best practices.

12. Educate Clients:

Educate your clients about the benefits of sustainable design and the value of pursuing certifications like LEED. Transparency and client buy-in are crucial for successful green projects.

In conclusion, handling sustainability certifications like LEED and adhering to environmental standards is not only a matter of responsibility but also an opportunity to differentiate your interior design office. By embracing sustainable design principles, collaborating with eco-friendly suppliers, and staying informed about the latest green trends, your office can contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally responsible future. This approach not only benefits the environment but also adds value to your projects and enhances your reputation as a socially and environmentally conscious interior design office. One can achieve these by getting in touch with the renowned design and build firm such as Flipspaces, who can help you with the same.

[vcinteriors]

Enhancing Your Home Sustainably: Interior Design Ideas for Eco-Friendly Living

In today's world, where environmental consciousness is on the rise, adopting sustainable practices in every aspect of life is becoming increasingly important. When it comes to our living spaces, interior design plays a significant role in promoting eco-friendly habits. As more homeowners seek to minimize their carbon footprint, interior designers in Trivandrum are embracing sustainable principles to create environmentally conscious living spaces. Let's explore some innovative ideas for sustainable and eco-friendly interior design.

1. Choosing Eco-Friendly Materials:

   When revamping your home's interior, opt for materials that have minimal environmental impact. Consider using reclaimed wood, bamboo, cork, or recycled metal for furniture and flooring. These materials not only add a unique aesthetic appeal to your space but also reduce the need for new resources, promoting sustainability in interior design.

2. Energy-Efficient Lighting Solutions:

   Lighting accounts for a significant portion of energy consumption in homes. By incorporating energy-efficient lighting solutions such as LED bulbs and fixtures, you can significantly reduce your home's energy usage. Additionally, utilize natural light to its fullest potential by strategically placing windows and skylights, thereby minimizing the need for artificial lighting during the day.

3. Implementing Sustainable Furniture Practices:

   When selecting furniture for your home, prioritize pieces that are made from sustainable materials and manufactured using eco-friendly processes. Look for certifications such as Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) or Cradle to Cradle (C2C) to ensure that the furniture meets stringent environmental standards. Additionally, consider investing in multifunctional furniture pieces that serve dual purposes, maximizing space efficiency while minimizing consumption.

4. Incorporating Indoor Plants:

   Indoor plants not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of your home but also contribute to improved air quality by filtering out toxins and pollutants. Integrate a variety of houseplants into your interior design to create a healthier and more vibrant living environment. From small potted plants to vertical gardens, there are numerous creative ways to incorporate greenery into your home decor.

5. Embracing Minimalism and Decluttering:

   Adopting a minimalist approach to interior design not only promotes a sense of tranquility and simplicity but also reduces unnecessary consumption and waste. Prioritize essential items and declutter your living space to create a more functional and sustainable home environment. Consider repurposing or upcycling existing furniture and decor items rather than constantly buying new ones.

Conclusion:

As the demand for sustainable living continues to grow, interior designers in Trivandrum are increasingly incorporating eco-friendly practices into their designs. By choosing eco-friendly materials, implementing energy-efficient solutions, embracing sustainable furniture practices, incorporating indoor plants, and adopting minimalist principles, homeowners can create stylish and environmentally conscious living spaces. Let's strive to make sustainable interior design a cornerstone of modern living, ensuring a greener and healthier future for generations to come.

[niiveeaa]

How do you handle sustainability certifications like LEED and environmental standards in interior design offices?

In a world increasingly concerned with environmental sustainability, interior design offices must adapt their practices to meet stringent sustainability certifications and environmental standards. Achieving certifications like LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is not only about aligning with global sustainability goals but also creating healthier, more efficient, and aesthetically pleasing spaces. In this blog, we'll explore how interior design offices can effectively handle sustainability certifications and environmental standards.

1. Education and Awareness:

Before diving into sustainability certifications, it's crucial to educate your team and raise awareness about the importance of environmentally conscious design. Make sustainability a core value in your office culture, encouraging staff to stay updated on the latest trends and best practices in green design.

2. Incorporate Sustainable Design Principles:

To achieve sustainability certifications like LEED, your interior design projects must align with eco-friendly design principles. Consider aspects such as energy efficiency, water conservation, materials selection, indoor air quality, and waste reduction. This may require innovative solutions like energy-efficient lighting, low-VOC paints, and sustainable furniture choices.

3. Set Clear Sustainability Goals:

Define specific sustainability goals for each project and ensure that your team is on the same page regarding these objectives. Whether it's reducing energy consumption, maximizing natural light, or sourcing materials from sustainable suppliers, clearly established goals provide a roadmap for success.

4. Partner with Eco-Friendly Suppliers:

Collaborate with suppliers who prioritize sustainability. This includes sourcing materials, finishes, and furnishings from suppliers with recognized environmental certifications and those that promote responsible production and transportation practices.

5. LEED Certification:

If your project aims to achieve LEED certification, engage with a LEED-accredited professional or consult with a sustainability expert who can guide you through the certification process. They can help assess your project's eligibility, identify sustainable design opportunities, and navigate the intricacies of LEED documentation.

6. Select Sustainable Materials:

Material selection plays a pivotal role in achieving sustainability certifications. Opt for materials with a low environmental impact, such as reclaimed wood, recycled metal, or low-VOC finishes. Additionally, consider products with third-party certifications like Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) or Cradle to Cradle (C2C) to guarantee their sustainability.

7. Energy Efficiency:

Incorporate energy-efficient design elements into your projects, such as LED lighting, occupancy sensors, and smart HVAC systems. By minimizing energy consumption, you not only reduce the environmental footprint but also help clients save on operating costs.

8. Waste Reduction:

Implement waste reduction strategies throughout the project's lifecycle. This includes careful planning to minimize construction waste, recycling and reusing materials, and considering end-of-life scenarios for products used in the design.

9. Indoor Air Quality:

Ensure that the indoor air quality of your designs is exceptional. Specify low-VOC (volatile organic compounds) paints, adhesives, and finishes, and promote effective ventilation systems to provide occupants with clean and healthy air.

10. Document and Monitor Progress:

Effective documentation is essential for sustainability certifications. Maintain detailed records of your project's sustainability efforts and their outcomes. Regularly monitor and evaluate your progress to identify areas for improvement.

11. Stay Current with Regulations:

Sustainability standards and regulations evolve over time. It's essential to stay informed about local, national, and global changes in environmental standards and compliance requirements, ensuring that your office remains up-to-date with industry best practices.

12. Educate Clients:

Educate your clients about the benefits of sustainable design and the value of pursuing certifications like LEED. Transparency and client buy-in are crucial for successful green projects.

In conclusion, handling sustainability certifications like LEED and adhering to environmental standards is not only a matter of responsibility but also an opportunity to differentiate your interior design office. By embracing sustainable design principles, collaborating with eco-friendly suppliers, and staying informed about the latest green trends, your office can contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally responsible future. This approach not only benefits the environment but also adds value to your projects and enhances your reputation as a socially and environmentally conscious interior design office.

[cleaningproductnz]

Decoding Sustainable Labels: Navigating the Abyss of Eco-Cleaning Product Authenticity

In an epoch marked by a surging environmental ethos, the battleground for the coveted "green" throne has shifted to the cleaning aisle. Amidst the labyrinth of eco-labels and jargon, understanding the realm of eco-friendly cleaning products can resemble unraveling a cryptic lexicon. Fret not, eco-enthusiasts! This discourse acts as your cipher, illuminating the often-obscure universe of eco-labels and equipping you to be a vigilant opponent of greenwashing.

The Greenwashing Chessboard: Illusions and Diversions in the Cleaning Aisle

Before plunging into the substantial details, let's address the proverbial elephant amidst the soapy suds: greenwashing. This artifice involves portraying a product as environmentally amiable, employing misleading assertions and ambiguous language to allure eco-conscious consumers. Picture lush packaging, buzzwords like "natural" and "plant-based," and strategically positioned eco-labels—all devoid of any genuine commitment to sustainability.

Unveiling the Counterfeits: A Handbook to Questionable Eco-Labels

How can we discern these greenwashing charlatans? Here's a dissection of some prevalent eco-labels and their authentic connotations:

"Green Dot": Originating from Europe, this label solely signifies a product's recyclable packaging, offering no insights into the product's components or environmental ramifications. "Recycled Content": A simple proclamation that the product incorporates some recycled material, yet neglecting to specify the percentage or origin. "Natural": A term notorious for its ambiguity, frequently applied to products blending synthetic and natural ingredients. "Plant-Based": Resembling "natural," this can be misleading as plant-derived components may still be detrimental or unsustainable.

The Virtuous, the Dubious, and the Green: Reliable Eco-Labels

Fear not, authentic eco-labels exist! Here are a few you can rely on to steer your green cleaning decisions:

USDA Certified Biobased Product: This label ensures a minimum of 88% of the product's constituents are derived from renewable resources such as plants and animals. EWG Verified: This label attests that the product adheres to stringent criteria concerning ingredient safety and environmental impact. Green Seal: This non-profit entity certifies products based on rigorous environmental and health benchmarks. Cradle to Cradle (C2C): This ambitious certification guarantees products are fashioned for complete recyclability and environmental positivity throughout their life cycle.

Beyond the Label: A Comprehensive Approach to Green Cleaning

While eco-labels serve as valuable tools, bear in mind they constitute only one facet of the green cleaning enigma. Contemplate these additional considerations when making your selections:

Ingredients: Favor products containing readily biodegradable, non-toxic components, avoiding notorious harmful chemicals like phthalates and formaldehyde.Packaging: Opt for products with minimal packaging, ideally crafted from recycled materials or designed for effortless refilling.Concentrated Formulas: Opt for concentrated formulas demanding less water and packaging, thus diminishing your environmental impact.DIY Alternatives: Ponder creating your own cleaning concoctions utilizing natural elements like vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice. Often more cost-effective, efficacious, and entirely eco-friendly!

Empowering Yourself: Morphing into a Greenwashing Conqueror

Knowledge begets power! By enlightening yourself about eco-labels and greenwashing stratagems, you can make judicious decisions and hold brands accountable. Here are some pointers:

Pose Queries: Don't hesitate to reach out to the manufacturer if any doubts linger regarding a product's claims or certifications. Research Thoroughly: Consult independent resources such as the Environmental Working Group (EWG) and Green America for meticulous information on ingredients and brands. Disseminate Information: Share your knowledge with acquaintances and kin, encouraging them to be conscientious eco-consumers.

Together, we can forge a purer, more verdant future, one gleaming surface at a time. Recall, the authority to decode eco-labels and debunk greenwashing lies within your grasp. So, equip yourself with knowledge, choose sagaciously, and let's transform the cleaning aisle into a beacon of genuine sustainability!

This discourse merely inaugurates your eco-cleaning odyssey. Keep delving, keep learning, and keep making decisions that echo your dedication to a flourishing planet. Remember, even the minutest strides towards a greener abode can yield a substantial impact.

[dmm15]

How do you handle sustainability certifications like LEED and environmental standards in interior design offices?

In a world increasingly concerned with environmental sustainability, interior design offices must adapt their practices to meet stringent sustainability certifications and environmental standards. Achieving certifications like LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is not only about aligning with global sustainability goals but also creating healthier, more efficient, and aesthetically pleasing spaces. In this blog, we'll explore how interior design offices can effectively handle sustainability certifications and environmental standards.

1. Education and Awareness:

Before diving into sustainability certifications, it's crucial to educate your team and raise awareness about the importance of environmentally conscious design. Make sustainability a core value in your office culture, encouraging staff to stay updated on the latest trends and best practices in green design.

2. Incorporate Sustainable Design Principles:

To achieve sustainability certifications like LEED, your interior design projects must align with eco-friendly design principles. Consider aspects such as energy efficiency, water conservation, materials selection, indoor air quality, and waste reduction. This may require innovative solutions like energy-efficient lighting, low-VOC paints, and sustainable furniture choices.

3. Set Clear Sustainability Goals:

Define specific sustainability goals for each project and ensure that your team is on the same page regarding these objectives. Whether it's reducing energy consumption, maximizing natural light, or sourcing materials from sustainable suppliers, clearly established goals provide a roadmap for success.

4. Partner with Eco-Friendly Suppliers:

Collaborate with suppliers who prioritize sustainability. This includes sourcing materials, finishes, and furnishings from suppliers with recognized environmental certifications and those that promote responsible production and transportation practices.

5. LEED Certification:

If your project aims to achieve LEED certification, engage with a LEED-accredited professional or consult with a sustainability expert who can guide you through the certification process. They can help assess your project's eligibility, identify sustainable design opportunities, and navigate the intricacies of LEED documentation.

6. Select Sustainable Materials:

Material selection plays a pivotal role in achieving sustainability certifications. Opt for materials with a low environmental impact, such as reclaimed wood, recycled metal, or low-VOC finishes. Additionally, consider products with third-party certifications like Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) or Cradle to Cradle (C2C) to guarantee their sustainability.

7. Energy Efficiency:

Incorporate energy-efficient design elements into your projects, such as LED lighting, occupancy sensors, and smart HVAC systems. By minimizing energy consumption, you not only reduce the environmental footprint but also help clients save on operating costs.

8. Waste Reduction:

Implement waste reduction strategies throughout the project's lifecycle. This includes careful planning to minimize construction waste, recycling and reusing materials, and considering end-of-life scenarios for products used in the design.

9. Indoor Air Quality:

Ensure that the indoor air quality of your designs is exceptional. Specify low-VOC (volatile organic compounds) paints, adhesives, and finishes, and promote effective ventilation systems to provide occupants with clean and healthy air.

10. Document and Monitor Progress:

Effective documentation is essential for sustainability certifications. Maintain detailed records of your project's sustainability efforts and their outcomes. Regularly monitor and evaluate your progress to identify areas for improvement.

11. Stay Current with Regulations:

Sustainability standards and regulations evolve over time. It's essential to stay informed about local, national, and global changes in environmental standards and compliance requirements, ensuring that your office remains up-to-date with industry best practices.

12. Educate Clients:

Educate your clients about the benefits of sustainable design and the value of pursuing certifications like LEED. Transparency and client buy-in are crucial for successful green projects.

In conclusion, handling sustainability certifications like LEED and adhering to environmental standards is not only a matter of responsibility but also an opportunity to differentiate your interior design office. By embracing sustainable design principles, collaborating with eco-friendly suppliers, and staying informed about the latest green trends, your office can contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally responsible future. This approach not only benefits the environment but also adds value to your projects and enhances your reputation as a socially and environmentally conscious interior design office. One can achieve these by getting in touch with the renowned design and build firm such as Flipspaces, who can help you with the same.

[businesscoachrahulmalodia]

Understanding Sustainable Materials: Cradle-to-Cradle Design

In a world where environmental consciousness is becoming increasingly crucial, the concept of sustainable materials and cradle-to-cradle (C2C) design has emerged as a transformative approach. The traditional linear model of "take, make, dispose" is giving way to more sustainable alternatives that prioritize the entire life cycle of materials. This paradigm shift aims to create a closed-loop system where materials are designed to be reused, recycled, or returned to nature, minimizing waste and environmental impact.

Key Components of Cradle-to-Cradle Design:

**1. Biological Nutrients:

Cradle-to-cradle design distinguishes between biological and technical nutrients. Biological nutrients, such as natural fibers or materials, can safely re-enter the environment, supporting natural ecosystems without causing harm.

**2. Technical Nutrients:

On the other hand, technical nutrients are materials designed to be continuously recycled without loss of quality. This includes metals, plastics, and other synthetic materials that can be reused in manufacturing processes.

**3. Life Cycle Thinking:

The core principle of cradle-to-cradle design involves considering the entire life cycle of a product, from raw material extraction to manufacturing, use, and end-of-life disposal. This holistic approach ensures that every stage is optimized for sustainability.

**4. Renewable Energy:

C2C design places a strong emphasis on utilizing renewable energy sources throughout the production process. This reduces the carbon footprint and contributes to the overall sustainability of the materials and products.

Benefits of Cradle-to-Cradle Design:

**1. Reduced Environmental Impact:

By focusing on sustainable materials and closed-loop systems, cradle-to-cradle design minimizes environmental impact, conserving resources and reducing pollution.

**2. Circular Economy Contribution:

C2C design aligns with the principles of a circular economy, where materials are continually cycled through closed loops, promoting a regenerative and restorative approach to production.

**3. Innovation and Creativity:

The constraints of designing for sustainability often lead to innovative solutions. Cradle-to-cradle design encourages creativity in finding alternatives that are environmentally friendly and economically viable.

**4. Enhanced Corporate Reputation:

Companies adopting cradle-to-cradle principles often experience improved brand image and reputation. Consumers increasingly appreciate and support businesses that prioritize sustainability and environmental responsibility.

Challenges and Considerations:

**1. Certification and Standards:

While cradle-to-cradle certification exists, widespread adoption and adherence to standardized practices are essential for ensuring the credibility and effectiveness of this approach.

**2. Collaboration Across Industries:

Achieving cradle-to-cradle goals often requires collaboration across industries. Companies need to work together to create closed-loop systems and shared infrastructure for recycling and reusing materials.

**3. Initial Cost Concerns:

Transitioning to cradle-to-cradle design may involve initial costs for research, development, and implementation. However, the long-term benefits and positive environmental impact often outweigh these initial investments.

Conclusion:

As businesses and industries recognize the importance of sustainable practices, understanding and implementing cradle-to-cradle design principles becomes a pivotal step toward a more environmentally conscious future. Rahul Malodia, acknowledged as the best business coach in India, advocates for integrating sustainability into business strategies. By embracing cradle-to-cradle design, businesses not only contribute to environmental preservation but also position themselves as leaders in responsible and ethical practices. The journey toward sustainable materials and design is an ongoing process that requires commitment, collaboration, and continuous innovation. As the world navigates towards a more sustainable future, cradle-to-cradle design stands out as a key driver of positive change.

[ey01]

The Success of E-commerce in China

Introduction

Alibaba is a wholesale market for buyers who want to buy large quantities of products at the lowest prices. Alibaba enables buyers to deal directly with manufacturers to create customized products and realize significant cost savings. Alibaba had an idea to expand its business internationally instead of in the local market as they are been successful in the China market. Moreover, Alibaba had overcome the challenges they faced by making updates to their business model so that they had more ability to fix it.

Key Factors that make Alibaba a success in the Chinese market

Unique business model 

Alibaba primarily serves small businesses and individuals. This defines a unique business opportunity, unleashing the productivity of small businesses and providing consumers with more diverse consumption options. The core businesses of Alibaba are focused on serving small businesses and creating cumulative value that cannot be achieved alone whether on Taobao or Yidatong. Next, they had together represented a complete e-commerce ecosystem. Focusing on small businesses, it provides a large selection of goods to a large number of target consumer groups (Pavie 2018). Alibaba's business model is different from other players like eBay and Amazon. It focuses more on trade between businesses. Unlike the usual B2C approach, Alibaba focuses on being a platform for suppliers to sell products in bulk at wholesale prices to small and medium-sized enterprises worldwide, who then resell products in the domestic market for profit.

In addition, Alibaba is the only e-Marketplace that offers B2B, B2C, and C2C transactions. According to Qing & Xue (2009, p. 70), Alibaba is the world's largest electronic marketplace for international trade and domestic trade in China. Furthermore, Alibaba not only focuses on its own business but also on other businesses. For example, Alibaba had launched a program and solution to help the new entrepreneurs. ‘Drop shipping Solutions’ is what helps newbies manage their risk of inventory and gain customer support before they place large orders (Alibaba.com launches new services, support, and grants program to help New Digital Entrepreneurs 2022).

Reliable Credit Model 

According to Shrader 2013, show that Alibaba had developed its credit scoring model based on online activities. By understanding well on customer behavior and characteristics, Alibaba had used big data. On the other hand, big data is used to offer services and leverage the group’s cloud computing services to keep response time to customers fast and operational costs low. ‘Data drove offline operation’ is the data that link first and third parties so that third party will have insight into the customers (Hamill 2016, p. 5).

Alibaba's precise credit model aids in the development of a reliable reputation among customers. To validate their identity information, every e-commerce platform merchant must complete an online certification test. This eliminates unlawful transactions because sellers are constantly monitored on the platform. Moreover, to get trust from customers, all the transactions firstly will be transferred to Alipay and after receiving the customer’s positive feedback and the transaction just will be released. Also, all the transactions will be recorded in the seller and consumer’s accounts (Pavie & Luo 2016). 

Innovative in promotion 

In the beginning, Alibaba had provided a free membership to all people to create an interaction with customers (Rules Center 2016). It will cause the Alibaba businesses to gain more opportunities. According to Pereira 2022, show that Alibaba earns a profit is membership programs, advertising, and more. Moreover, Alibaba had started to charge customers for membership and advertising when the registration of membership is increasing.

To attract Alibaba's popularity, Alibaba promoted its services through Internet promotion strategies, such as public relations, direct marketing, and discounts on certain items on special days such as festivals, media advertisements, and event sponsorships (Alibaba marketing strategy and case study 2020). For example, the 11.11 event is the most attractive event in the global marketplace which cover all the Singles’ Day events. It is celebrated by brands and retailers around the world with big price cuts (Alibaba 2020).

Alibaba not only promotes using the products or services but in goods that will aid the environment and users. However, Alibaba is saving the environment by focusing on green initiatives and using the opportunity of the 11.11 events to reduce the carbon footprint. Also, Alibaba had promoted social good by launching the ‘Goods for Good’ program for victims which uses funds for good to aid them (Minion 2021).

Issue/ Opportunity arise in fragmenting and integrating the Chinese consumer market

Fragmentation

Alibaba offer variety of product to the consumers. Alibaba has contained a run of item categories from industrial parts and tools, apparel, textiles and accessories to machinery and many others (Ferreira n.d.). Alibaba has provided more than 5,900 product categories which provide for their consumers (D’Onfro 2014).

The opportunity of Alibaba for offering variety of products is Alibaba provide variety of products make them a unique business. By providing variety of products, it attracts different group of customers as their users, also attracts many suppliers to enter Alibaba. As evidence, it is about 1.28 billion of annual active consumers of the Alibaba Ecosystem around the world (Alibaba Group 2022). Alibaba provide diversity of product choice for customers and liberates the beneficial strengths of small enterprises. Alibaba's three major operations focus on delivering services to small businesses, resulting in value creation that would not have been achievable otherwise. A big selection of goods is made available to a wide range of target consumer groups by focusing on small businesses (Pavie 2018). Offering variety of product make Alibaba different to other business and it helps Alibaba creates customers loyalty and Alibaba can get referrals on continuous basis (ReferMe IQ 2022).

The issue of Alibaba for offering variety of product is the expansion of augmented reality shopping and the onboarding of new firms will necessitate continual improvements to the platform and accompanying technologies, which will result in significant changes in capital expenditure. Furthermore, Alibaba is not afraid to spend on all aspects of its business, from original content to product development, as its expenditures for product development, sales & marketing, general administration, and cost of revenue increased by 86.2 percent from 2017 to 2018 (Seeking Alpha 2020).

Integrating

Alibaba is integrating with Tencent by opening up the walled garden to each other. It means that the services of Tencent and Alibaba are accessible to each other (Ng 2021). Due to China antitrust crackdown initiated by State Administration for Market Regulation, or SAMR, Alibaba is now added Tencent’s WeChat payment system in some of their apps such as Ele.me food, Youku, Shuqi, Koala and Damai online ticketing platform. Also, Alibaba is still waiting for Tencent to approve WeChat payment system to make available on Idle Fish, Hema a grocery store app and discount shopping service Taobao Deals. It is not only Ant Group’s Alipay the only payment system is existed in Alibaba also WeChat payment. But WeChat payment is still not available on Alibaba’s flagship Taobao app and Tmall (Kharpal 2021). Moreover, Tencent also allowed the accessibility of external links in chats. For instance, users are able to access the shared link from Alibaba’s Taobao in WeChat without leaving the WeChat app. As previously, users have to copy link into Taobao to open the link instead of viewing the link directly in WeChat.

The collaboration between Tencent and Alibaba may help Alibaba to have new motivation for ecosystem devotion for brands. Open up the walled garden means that there are more options for marketer and brands also, Tencent may have better attribution modelling and spend productivity. Therefore, opponent become more formidable inspire Alibaba to work for a better version of itself (Wang 2021). Moreover, Alibaba get onto WeChat through WeChat mini-programs help Alibaba to have the opportunity to boost Alibaba’s conversion rates and user numbers. This is because Alibaba could have the opportunity to reach more users on WeChat. Even there are opportunities between integrating of Alibaba and Tencent, there is also some issues between the collaboration. Although Alibaba’s links are accessible in WeChat recently, but WeChat restricts notifications and does not permit much automatic advertisement. In essence, Alibaba’s essential promoting trade may endure as a result of merchants’ ability to advertise to users directly through WeChat (Ma 2021). Furthermore, Alibaba collaborate with Tencent may bearing inter-network exchanges costs and profit margin in the payments business are likely to urge slenderer for Alibaba (Culpan 2021). 

How social media research could facilitate the firm’s business growth in the global marketplace?

Sentiment Analysis

Social media research allows firm to conduct sentiment analysis which involves studying people’s thoughts and feelings towards a specific event, individual or a topic (Medhat et al. 2014). The information collected from sentiment analysis are not objective observation but are entirely subjective. According to (Thet, T.T. et al. 2010), sentiment analysis aims to analyse subjective expression such as personal opinions, thoughts, and judgement which can be categorised into positive, negative, or neutral depending on the expression in the words of the sentiment. Examples of online sentiments that can be used for sentiment analysis include movie reviews found in websites like Rotten Tomatoes, or product reviews found in retail website which is like the reviews found in each of Alibaba website’s product page that have ratings as well as comments given by customers that have bought the product.

Conducting sentiment analysis can greatly help in the growth of a firm’s business because firms can find out about the reception of their product or business strategy from internet users online. By having knowledge about this information, firms will be able to identify new opportunities for improvement to their business. Sentiment analysis can be conducted in multiple ways. But one of the most effective ways in doing it is through the website Brand24, which helps to extract relevant information like comments, opinions that are considered sentiments after a keyword is inserted into the search bar, which in this case would be “Alibaba”. The images and analysis below are the sentiment analysis conducted for Alibaba from Brand24:

Figure 1: Sentiment Analysis (infographic) for Alibaba from Brand24 (April 15 – May 15, 2022)

According to the figure above, there are over 11,682 mentions for Alibaba over the last 30 days, out of all those mentions, an estimated amount of 1,001 mentions is positive and 1,065 mentions are negative. This could be a bad sign for Alibaba’s reputation as there are slightly more negative mentions towards them than positive mentions. Not only that, according to the sentiments graph, although both the amount of positive and negative sentiments fluctuates from time to time but overall, there are more negative sentiments for the most part of the last 30 days. The amount of negative sentiment peaks at the 3rd and 4th of May as seen in the graph. This is most likely caused by the fact that there was an unconfirmed rumour on the 2nd of May stating that the founder of Alibaba, Jack Ma, was under investigation for endangering national security, which also caused the shares of Alibaba to fall over 9% (Cheng 2022).

Figure 2: Sentiment Analysis for Alibaba from Brand24 (April 15 – May 15, 2022)

The figures above show some popular public profiles that had mentioned Alibaba for the last 30 days. Some of these mentions can be considered as sentiments, a prime example of this would be the No.7 most popular public profiles which is a YouTube channel named “Learn How with Andy Isom” that mentioned Alibaba in one of its videos titled “Don’t sell an Alibaba product”. In the video, they went through a great length to explain their opinion on why selling products on Alibaba comes with multiple issues which makes their mention towards Alibaba as a negative sentiment. 

Netnography

Another way that social media research could facilitate the firm’s business growth in the global marketplace is through Netnography.

Social media research allows firm to conduct netnography, which is a research method that involves engaging with online communities to analyse and gather relevant information in order to learn more about consumers. According to (Kozinets 2015), Netnography research method are highly effective and widely used across studying all types of different subject including geography, sociology, media, travel, sexuality, medical science, and so on. Some examples of the online community where netnography can be conducted includes group pages in social media platform like Facebook, discussion forums of any topic at Quora, and more. Conducting netnography can be beneficial to the growth of firm’s business in many ways. This includes easier access of reaching out to more respondent in a short amount of time, time and cost saving as netnography can be fully conducted online without any physical travel, and more (Xun & Reynolds 2010).

Key Recommendation

Global Consumer Culture

Future firm would have to conduct market research before entering a foreign market as to understand the needs and demand of foreign consumer to successfully penetrate into foreign market. It is crucial for firm to understand the consumer base by gathering information of consumer to better understand opportunities and limitations for gaining customers. Furthermore, competitive analysis is important to find a market advantage and to create a firm that is unique to potential customers (SBA, 2022).

In order for firms to successfully penetrate into foreign market, the firm should adapt to the country's society while maintaining the company's essential beliefs and values. Ultimately, firms preparing to enter foreign market are vital to conduct extensive research, be prepared to adapt, adequate planning, and realistic expectations for a successful international market penetration (GUILLÉN, 2017).

Social Commerce and Channel Integration

Social commerce differs from traditional e-commerce in that it weaves purchasing and selling into the fabric of daily life and fosters a genuine sense of community and connection. It's about to transform the way we purchase by allowing people to engage in the global economy in new ways as consumers, innovators, influencers, and sellers (Murdoch, 2022).

Social commerce encourages customer engagement, authenticity and trust, providing an enhanced shopping experience for customer. People want to buy products and services based on recommendation and inspiration from people they trust including family, friends, communities or can even be influencer that authenticate the product on social media. According to a study published by Facebook, 81% of respondents confirm that they use Facebook and Instagram to research new products, while 79% of people claim social media content has an impact on their purchasing decisions (López, 2022).

Social Media Influence to Market Growth

Social media influence is crucial for an online firm to be successful as it promote recognition of the brand to customer and help maintain customers by constantly interacting and building relationship with the audience. A firm should maintain building social media presence, introducing the brand to the market, and let consumer recognize the brand (MAHONEY, 2022). Firm should always stay up to date, follow recent trends and exploring different and emerging social media platform such as Tiktok for advertising to widen their target market.

Implementing Market Integration

The many platforms now available to businesses will be used in an interconnected solution. Integrated campaigns combine similar specialised technology to enhance presentation viability and complement one another. Companies could employ an integrated campaign to raise awareness about product issues and create leads for their sales team. Every time alternatives and consumers are exposed to campaign components through repeated headlines, key words, and graphics on each channel, they receive a clear message. Furthermore, firms may be able to save money on office expenses by dealing with a single company that provides coordinated correspondence administrations rather than several professional organisations if they use exchanging providers.

Finally, even if the company did not directly reach the audience, customers would gain from the firm's print, radio, and television advertisements provided the company coincided with their tastes. Reconciliation ensures that consumers and potential customers are dealing with the same data in all data exchanges. Clients looking for product information on the Internet can also be addressed by integrating web architecture and content with distinct interchanges.

Conclusion

In summary, Alibaba was able to become one of the most successful businesses in the Chinese market through the combination of a few key factors which includes unique business models like offering B2B, B2C, and C2C transactions, a reliable credit model that collects customer data to help in improving their service, and an innovative promotion strategy like the free membership program offered.

Next, by fragmentating the Chinese consumer market, Alibaba would have the opportunity to stand out as a unique business that attracts all kinds of customers and suppliers by offering products of all variety. However, it also comes with the issue of a significant changes in capital expenditure due to the required expansion and improvements.

Other than that, Integrating the Chinese consumer market can provide Alibaba with more business opportunity since it involves collaboration with other business, Alibaba will also have to improve due to increased competition. However, Alibaba would also face potential issues like increased cost and decreased profit margin.

Furthermore, social media research was able to facilitate firm’s business growth in the global marketplace through sentiment analysis that allows firms to study consumer’s thoughts and feelings to understand their opinions towards the firm as well as netnography that help firms to analyze and gather information from online communities.

And lastly, some of the key recommendations for firms to be successful in the global marketplace includes understanding global consumer culture by conducting market research before entering any foreign market, practice social commerce and channel integration by encouraging customer engagement for a better shopping experience, staying active on social media which helps to influence market growth, and finally, implement market integration which involves employing an integrated campaign to raise awareness about product issues.

List of references

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‘Alibaba.com launches new services, support, and grants program to help New Digital Entrepreneurs’ 2022, Alibaba.com, viewed 20 May 2022, <https://activity.alibaba.com/ggs/alibaba_com_launches_new_services_support_and_grants_program.html>.

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Alibaba 2020, ‘Everything you need to know about Alibaba’s 11.11 global shopping festival’, Inside Retail, 16 November, viewed 20 May 2022, <Everything you need to know about Alibaba’s 11.11 Global Shopping Festival - Inside Retail>.

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Cheng, E 2022, “Alibaba’s shares fall in Hong Kong following unconfirmed rumours linking Jack Ma to probe”, CNBC, 2 May, viewed 16 May 2022, < https://www.cnbc.com/2022/05/03/alibabas-shares-fall-after-unconfirmed-rumors-link-jack-ma-to-a-probe.html>.

Culpan, T 2021, ‘Alibaba and Tencent can be friends but business might suffer’, Bloomberg, 15 July, viewed 18 May 2022, <https://www.bloomberg.com/opinion/articles/2021-07-14/if-alibaba-and-tencent-become-friends-will-it-be-good-for-business>.

D’Onfro, J 2014, ’22 Astounding facts about Alibaba, the giant Chinese E-commerce company with the largest IPO in US stock history’, Insider, 19 September, viewed 20 May 2022, <https://www.businessinsider.com/alibaba-facts-size-growth-ipo-2014-9>.

Ferreira, N n.d., ‘Alibaba guide: The secrets to buying from Alibaba’, StartupBros, viewed 20 May 2022, <https://startupbros.com/buying-from-alibaba/#:~:text=Alibaba%20has%20a%20range%20of,reach%20out%20to%20several%20suppliers>.

GUILLÉN, S 2017, ‘4 Keys to a successful international market penetration’, Accelingo, viewed 21 May 2022, <https://www.accelingo.com/successful-international-market-penetration/>.                                

Hamill, A 2016, ‘How Alibaba uses big data to understand China’s shoppers’, Warc Exclusive, pp. 2-6. 

Kharpal, A 2021, ‘Alibaba apps are starting to support Tencent’s WeChat Pay. Here’s why it’s a big deal’, CNBC, 28 September, viewed 16 May 2022, <https://www.cnbc.com/2021/09/28/alibaba-apps-are-starting-to-support-tencent-wechat-pay-amid-scrutiny.html#:~:text=Tencent%20has%20started%20unblocking%20links,on%20some%20of%20its%20apps.>.

Kozinets, V.R. 2015, “Netnography: Redefined”, Sage, 3 November, viewed 16 May 2022, < https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Robert-Kozinets/publication/280491845_Netnography_Redefined_--first_two_chapters_preview/links/55b64dac08ae9289a08abbde/Netnography-Redefined--first-two-chapters-preview.pdf>.

López, R 2022, ‘Social Shopping: how social media can boost your brand’ sales’, Good Rebels, viewed 21 May 2022, <https://www.goodrebels.com/social-shopping-how-social-media-can-boost-your-brands-sales/>.

Ma, R 2021, ‘Alibaba and Tencent are getting ahead of Beijing’s sweeping internet reforms’, rest of world, 2 August, viewed 17 May 2022, <https://restofworld.org/2021/alibaba-tencent-beijing-internet-reform/>.

MAHONEY, M 2022, ‘The Impact of social media on business in 2022’, Single Grain, viewed 21 May 2022, <https://www.singlegrain.com/blog-posts/impact-of-social-media-in-todays-business-world/>.

Medhat, W., Hassan, A. and Korashy, H., 2014, “Sentiment analysis algorithms and applications: A survey”, Ain Shams engineering journal, December, viewed 16 May 2022, < https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2090447914000550>.

Minion, RD 2021, ‘The big festival: What makes alibaba’s upcoming 11.11 sale different this year’, GEMPAK, 11 November, viewed 20 May 2022, <The Big Festival: What Makes Alibaba's Upcoming 11.11 Sale Different This Year | RojakDaily (gempak.com)>.

Murdoch, R 2022, ‘See why shopping is set for a social revolution’, Accenture.com, viewed 21 May 2022, <https://www.accenture.com/us-en/insights/software-platforms/why-shopping-set-social-revolution>.

Ng, B 2021, ‘Alibaba and Tencent weigh openings in ‘walled gardens’ to make services accessible to each other, report says’, KrASIA, 15 July, viewed 16 May 2022, <https://kr-asia.com/alibaba-and-tencent-weigh-openings-in-walled-gardens-to-make-services-accessible-to-each-other-report-says>.

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Pavie, X 2018, ‘Seven reasons for Alibaba’s ground- breaking success’, BBN Times, 10 May, viewed 11 May 2022, <https://www.bbntimes.com/society/seven-reasons-for-alibaba-s-ground-breaking-success>.

Pavie, X 2018, ‘Seven reasons for Alibaba’s ground-breaking success’, BBN TIMES, 10 May, viewed 20 May 2022, <https://www.bbntimes.com/society/seven-reasons-for-alibaba-s-ground-breaking-success>.

Pereira, D 2022, ‘Alibaba Business Model’, THE BUSINESS MODEL ANALYST, 15 May, viewed 20 May 2022, <https://businessmodelanalyst.com/alibaba-business-model/#:~:text=Alibaba's%20revenue%20streams%20consist%20of,Advertising>.

Qing, HH & Xue, ZS 2009., ‘A model for value-added e-marketplace provisioning: case study from Alibaba.com’, IFIP International Federation for Information Processing, pp. 65-72. 

ReferMe IQ 2022, ‘The importance of making your business unique’, ReferMe IQ, viewed 13 May 2022, <https://www.refermeiq.com/resources/importance-making-business-unique/>.

SBA 2022, ‘Market research and competitive analysis’, SBA, viewed 21 May 2022, <https://www.sba.gov/business-guide/plan-your-business/market-research-competitive-analysis>. 

Seeking Alpha 2020, ‘Alibaba: Diversification of revenues, cool technology and promising partnerships’, Seeking Alpha, 24 February, 14 May 2022, <https://seekingalpha.com/article/4326626-alibaba-diversification-of-revenues-cool-technology-and-promising-partnerships>.

Shrader, L 2013, ‘Microfinance, e-commerce, big data and China: The Alibaba story’, CGAP, 11 October, viewed 20 May 2022, <https://www.cgap.org/blog/microfinance-e-commerce-big-data-and-china-alibaba-story#:~:text=Alibaba%20has%20built%20its%20own,time%20to%20customers%20fast%20and>.

Thet, T.T., Na, J.C. and Khoo, C.S., 2010, “Aspect-based sentiment analysis of movie reviews on discussion boards”, Journal of information science, viewed 16 May 2022, < https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/pdf/10.1177/0165551510388123>.

Wang, M 2021, ‘Alibaba and Tencent: What could a future without walled gardens look like?’, Campaign, 7 September, viewed 17 May 2022, <https://www.campaignasia.com/article/alibaba-and-tencent-what-could-a-future-without-walled-gardens-look-like/472339>.

Xun, J. and Reynolds, J., 2010, “Applying netnography to market research: The case of the online forum”, Journal of Targeting, Measurement and Analysis for Marketing, 1 February, viewed 16 May 2022, < https://link.springer.com/article/10.1057/jt.2009.29>.

[kenresearch2023]

In 2021, 9.1 Mn cars were sold in UK of which 80% (7.5 Mn) were Used Cars reflecting huge demand for Used Car Market in UK – Ken Research

1. The automotive industry contributes around 4 percent to the country’s GDP making it one of the leading Automobiles Hub of Europe

For more information, Request a Free Sample Report

More than 150 countries importing UK produced vehicles as of 2021, generating billions of trades. There are 32 Mn registered vehicles in UK, almost half of which are private cars and one-third are motorcycles. The automotive industry contributes tremendously to the country’s economy, accounting for 4% of national GDP. UK continuously accelerates its next-generation automotive industry to follow the S-Curve promotion with higher value-added production.

2. Prolonged period of Covid-19 distressed the New Car sales in UK Automotive Market giving a rise in Used Car demand among consumers due to low prices amid pandemic restrictions

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With businesses laying off staff or cutting salaries, many consumers put their plans to buy a new car on hold. The twin supply-demand shock put companies in a difficult position as had been forced to respond to the demand slump by the need liquidity.

Though mobility restrictions imposed across the country, the demand for used cars increased due to consumer’s finding the lower prices of used cars more attractive.

This preference was also due to the consumer desire to avoid public transport because of the coronavirus.

3. The aftermath scenario of pandemic in used car industry in UK saw the following trends

Sales of used cars was expected to increase mainly from low-income population as consumers preferred to buy their own affordable vehicles as compared to travelling in public transport system.

This was further augmented by uncertain future, loss of jobs, falling economy, lesser propensity to spend higher prices on new vehicles.

Thus, migration from public transport systems towards personal vehicles due to COVID 19, is expected to give much needed impetus to the industry.

4. In UK Used Car Market, the preference for organized sector is more with share of 58% due to more convenient buying experience along with value added services viz., warranty, certification and others

To more about industry trends, Request a Free Expert Call

The growth of 8.5% is expected in sales volume of used car by unorganized sector during forecast period 2021-2026F. Increasing number of online platforms and rising adoption among consumers to contribute to the growth of both the unorganized as well as organized sectors. C2C sales are expected to grow due to enhanced reach in UK in coming years.

For more insights on the market intelligence, refer to the link below:-

UK Second Hand Car Industry

Related Reports by Ken Research:-

 India Used Car Market Outlook to 2020

USA Used Car Market Outlook to 2026

[kr-021]

How can the use of sustainable materials and eco-friendly design practices contribute to the overall sustainability of a food and beverage interior design?

Introduction:

In today's environmentally conscious world, integrating sustainable materials and eco-friendly design practices in food and beverage interior design is crucial. By embracing sustainability, establishments can reduce their environmental footprint while creating visually appealing and functional spaces. In this article, we'll explore how the use of sustainable materials and eco-friendly design practices contribute to the overall sustainability of food and beverage interior design.

Reduce Environmental Impact:

By opting for sustainable materials like reclaimed wood, bamboo, recycled metals, and low-VOC paints, food and beverage interior design establishments can significantly reduce their environmental impact. These materials are renewable, minimize resource depletion, and often have lower carbon footprints compared to traditional options. By selecting eco-friendly materials, you promote responsible sourcing and contribute to the preservation of natural resources.

Enhance Indoor Air Quality:

Eco-friendly design practices prioritize the use of low VOC (volatile organic compound) paints, adhesives, and finishes. These products release fewer harmful chemicals into the air, improving indoor air quality for both customers and staff. By creating a healthier environment, you enhance the overall well-being and comfort of those within your establishment.

Energy Efficiency:

Incorporating energy-efficient design elements can significantly reduce energy consumption and operating costs. Utilize natural lighting through large windows, skylights, or light tubes to minimize the need for artificial lighting during the day. Install energy-efficient LED lighting systems and optimize lighting control to reduce energy wastage. Implement smart thermostats and HVAC systems to regulate temperature efficiently.

Water Conservation:

Water conservation is a critical aspect of sustainability. Incorporate water-efficient fixtures such as low-flow faucets, toilets, and dishwashers to minimize water consumption. Design spaces that promote responsible water usage, such as implementing sensor-based faucets that automatically control water flow.

Waste Reduction and Recycling:

Integrate waste reduction and recycling practices into the design of your food and beverage interior design establishment. Consider the placement of recycling stations for customers and staff. Design storage areas for waste separation and proper disposal. Utilize sustainable packaging materials and encourage customers to participate in recycling programs.

Sustainable Furnishings:

Choose furniture made from sustainable materials, such as reclaimed wood or recycled plastic. Look for certifications like Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) or Cradle to Cradle (C2C), ensuring that the furnishings meet stringent sustainability criteria. Additionally, opt for furniture with a long lifespan to reduce waste generation.

Education and Awareness:

Promote sustainability by educating both staff and customers about your eco-friendly design choices and practices. Highlight the importance of sustainability and encourage everyone to participate in environmentally conscious behaviors. Share your sustainability initiatives through social media, your website, and signage within your food and beverage interior design establishment to inspire others and create a positive impact.

Conclusion:

Integrating sustainable materials and eco-friendly design practices in food and beverage interior design is a powerful way to contribute to the overall sustainability of your establishment. By reducing environmental impact, enhancing indoor air quality, prioritizing energy efficiency and water conservation, implementing waste reduction and recycling strategies, using sustainable furnishings, and fostering education and awareness, you create environmentally conscious spaces that promote a greener future. Embracing sustainability not only benefits the environment but also enhances your brand reputation and attracts eco-conscious customers who value businesses that prioritize sustainable practices. You can get your next startup office designed and built by the tech-led interior design company Flipspaces which can be your one-stop solution for all your turnkey needs.

[forixcommerce]

How Adobe Commerce Cloud Migration complements High-Performing Magento Websites

If your page takes longer than 1.5 seconds to load, your potential customers are likely to bounce. So, doing an Adobe Commerce cloud migration can ensure optimizing the website.

Let’s look at how Adobe Commerce cloud migration complements a high-performing website.

The benefits of migrating to Adobe Commerce cloud

Simple and easy to use – The setting up of your website is considerably easier. Our Magento web development team can take care of the initial part that involves the configuration of Adobe Commerce cloud. For this, you’ll need the expert Magento support that we provide.

Secure website – After the Adobe Commerce cloud migration is done, you can rest assured of the level of security offered in the process. Adobe Commerce cloud is PCI-certified, and this certification can be used by online business retailers. You can get security issue alerts, including notifications about malware threats and unauthorized access to your website through third parties.

Payment currency support – Adobe Commerce cloud support helps online store owners access a global audience. Hence, the cloud supports more than ninety currencies across the world. This makes it easy for e-commerce retailers to access multinational and international leads, merchants and businesses.

Supports multi-language communication – The cloud supports different languages so that merchants can communicate the benefits of their products and services. Distinct language packages are offered. Moreover, composers and other extensions are available to configure the language package.

Abandoned cart issues and alerts – With the Adobe Commerce cloud migration, you can understand customer behavior for cart abandonments. E-merchants are also offered settings to customize customer and guest email series. The mageplaza abandoned cart email also provides detailed information on the customer’s behavior.

Simplified Magento CMS processes – With AI integration, the Adobe Experience Manager sites simplify the use of Magento CMS. The Adobe Cloud manager offers an AI-automated content managing system to deliver content more quickly. As a result, the system is built to offer a safe, robust and adaptable cloud-native platform to its online retail owners.

Supports SEO plugins and integrations – You can avail of Adobe Marketing for SEO features to meet your requirements. Also, the SEO plugins may help in further improving your Adobe Commerce SEO. For instance, a free add-on is the Amazon Sales Channel at no cost for the add-on. You can conduct direct product sales and distribution for your online store.

POS compatibility – There are a wide variety of high-end POS systems compatible with Adobe Commerce Cloud. By migrating to this cloud for your eCommerce business, you can track inventory in real-time, and provide cross-channel discounts and consumer rewards. Also, you can make it easier for customers to return items they don’t want and pick them up in-store.

The Adobe Commerce Cloud Migration can create the possibility of a steady and progressing customer experience. You can automate your business procedures while catering to both B2B and C2C. If you want Magento support for Adobe Commerce cloud migration, connect with Forix today. Our expert team offers the best Magento web development services.

[callcenterstech]

How Inbound Call Center Services Will Improve Your Business

Inbound Call Center Services are essential for fostering repeat business and guaranteeing the happiness of new customers in order to expand your organization

Moral business proprietors want to be certain that their clients are pleased with the products they receive. As customers want companies that can address their problems rapidly on a priority basis. They anticipate greater explanation and reassurance from sales representatives regarding the need for products. With this companies need to ensure their agents are for sale to help consumers whenever needed if they would like to offer them the finest possible service.

An outsourced inbound call center controls all sorts of contact, including emails, web chats, and social networks. This means that you’ll be capable of meeting your client’s expectations by supplying help through any communication funnel they need. Companies must now exceed only offering high-quality products at reasonable costs. Furthermore, customers demand things to look for.

How Call center tech satisfies your Inbound Call Center Services need?

Outsourcing C2C develops a very obvious and competent picture of your company among your clients. You could get support affordable to enhance your brand during regular business hrs, or 24/7. We help you in establishing a good first impression by making certain that callers can quickly achieve the right party, whether it’s sales. Our knowledgeable and skilled staff possess the necessary expertise to set up effective answering services for any kind of organization. Integrate our technologically advanced customer care to remain competitive

Call center tech establishes direct one-on-one engagement from a customer along with a representative in your account to provide the best Inbound Call Center service. We offer a number of training programs and certifications to help employees advance their skills and supply top-notch customer support. We help organizations create lucrative, lengthy-lasting connections together with their clients.

[arthurfreydin]

How E-Commerce Can Benefit Your Business

Having an online presence is beneficial, especially when trying to sell a product or service. Considering how e-commerce may benefit your business, consider the following examples. Companies of this sort include business-to-consumer (B2C), business-to-business (B2B), and consumer-to-business (C2B) (C2B).

In most cases, B2C e-commerce includes a party selling consumer goods or services. This can be accomplished through a website, e-mail, ads, or a discussion board.

The company can also sell its items to another company or individual. Previously, merchants had physical storefronts. Many businesses now offer their items online, while others use a third-party e-commerce platform.

One of the significant developments brought about by the Internet is the ability to sell items online. E-commerce is a complex system that encompasses logistics, supply chains, and physical stores. Payment is also involved in e-commerce, as are sale and buyer orders conditions. Accounting and inventory are standard features of B2C eCommerce operations. In addition, they have an e-commerce platform, an ERP system, and other infrastructure.

For businesses, using consumer-to-consumer e-commerce is an effective and efficient approach to offering products and services. But there are a few things to think about before you start.

One of the primary benefits of consumer-to-consumer e-commerce is the ability to reach a larger audience. Listing your wares on Craigslist allows you to reach out to potential consumers. You may also advertise your items on famous social media platforms. This will raise your credibility and your chances of gaining repeat consumers.

Another significant advantage of C2C e-commerce is that it allows you to do business from the comfort of your home. This helps you to reach a large number of people at a minimal cost. You can also skip driving to retailers.

Creating an online store is an excellent method to show off your items or services to the rest of the globe. It does, however, provide its own set of issues. The minimum is an entire website, but if you're serious about online sales, you may need to invest in a few more parts of the jigsaw. Fortunately, most eCommerce systems include an extensive range of standard functions. Some of these are even completely free.

Consider the costs of running your eCommerce site while you're at it. Everything from a website to hosting to shipping and packing is included in this pricing. You may require a health inspection certificate for the items you sell in the food sector. You'll also need to purchase a sizable inventory.

Businesses increasingly rely on Omnichannel loyalty programs to engage customers across all sales channels. These programs enable firms to offer personalized promotions based on customer data. They also promote client retention, revenue, and profitability.

The Body Shop, for example, established the Love Your Body Club in 2015. Members may get a $10 gift card on their birthday or a $10 credit on any purchase. Customers are also given tailored content, exclusive discounts, and prizes.

To establish a solid omnichannel loyalty program, a company must prioritize consistency. They should give consumers points for every transaction, regardless of where they make their purchases. They should also provide significant discounts to be perceived as distinctive presents. They should also issue digital receipts that capture contact information from customers.

Using big data analytics to boost your e-commerce firm is a terrific approach. You may improve customer service, develop new goods, and research your competition. Big data may also be used for demand forecasting and predictive analysis.

Big data analytics may generate customized marketing strategies for your target demographic. A personalized client experience fosters brand loyalty. A happy consumer may boost sales and profits. This is also an excellent method to keep existing consumers.

Big data analytics may also be used to discover customer service issues. For example, you may keep track of delivery delays and product concerns. You may also use social media activity to understand your brand better. Alerts for certain fraudulent behaviours can be put up.

[wooddyhome]

Some of Ethical & Eco-sustainable Furniture Brands & Companies

Some of Ethical & Eco-sustainable Furniture Brands & Companies

Eco-friendly furniture is a design trend for a sustainable meaningful life, existence, and gratitude to nature and creation by protecting the natural environment, using harmony and balance, favouring natural materials, can be recycled and reused, orient to sustainable and heritage thinking, bring beauty and pure, invisible energy to life. Those who choose a minimalist lifestyle and are grateful to nature, see it not only as a question of ethics and responsibility, but also highly aesthetic because of the sophistication that nature bestows. Its aesthetic is characterised by minimalist details, emulating the real elements of nature, bringing the spirit back to equilibrium and imparting peace, prosperity and ultimate happiness. Whether you're looking for a cosy 100% recyclable lounge chair or a reclaimed wood table with lots of character, there's a sustainable furniture brand for you. Here are some of our favourite eco-friendly furniture companies that are conscious of their environmental footprint, focused on the ethics of their supply chain, and create beautiful pieces. Several national and international institutes study and promote research on environmental protection, dictating useful guidelines for companies which seek the esteem of those who are attentive to eco-sustainability. 

Among the most important certifications, in the national and international panorama, in the field of eco-sustainability, for example:

The FSC® (Forest Stewardship Council®) Certification

The Greenguard Certification

The OK Biobased Certification

The CARB Certification

Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)

Cradle to Cradle (C2C)

SCS Indoor Advantage Indoor Air Quality

Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS)

Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS)

LEED Certification

Why is fast furniture not satisfied ?

Lower quality: Fast furniture may be cheap and convenient but it’s designed not to last. Most fast furniture is made with particle board, which not only doesn't last but is almost impossible to repair or refurbish leading to a wasteful cycle of buying and throwing out.

Overproduction: Fast furniture trends have become more frequent and seasonal and brands are trying to keep up by producing more. The problem is that most factories have been built to produce large quantities to make a profit. As a result, fast furniture brands make way more products than the market demands, resulting in extensive waste of resources.

Landfill waste: How many times have you seen furniture left on peoples’ curbs saying “free?” probably countless times. Millions of tons of furniture each year from a variety of materials in many of the items makes them hard to recycle and most of them end up in landfill.

Exploitation of natural resources: Wood is one of the most widely used materials in furniture, and the increasing global demand for low-cost timber threatens the world’s natural forests. The deforestation caused by illegal and unsustainable logging contributes to biodiversity loss and worsens the effects of climate change

Use of Toxic chemicals : Fast furniture manufacturers use glue, paint and stain, wood finishes and chemical retardants which contain toxic chemicals such as formaldehyde and chlorinated tris which pose serious health risks such as cancer, thyroid disease, decreased fertility, lower IQ, and other harmful health effects. As 50%  of our time is spent indoors, exposure to these chemicals may have lasting effects on our health more than we realise.

Ethical issues: As with fast fashion, fast furniture supply chains have major ethical issues. Companies make these items in developing countries with different employee ethics that allow for lower pay and longer working hours. Additionally, workers have to deal with harmful sawdust and carcinogens released in the manufacturing process.

List of 20 Ethical & Eco-sustainable Furniture Brands:

Giorgetti  

Lago

Porada

Kartell

Ecobalanza

Avocado

Emeco

EcoFurnix

Floyd

Medley

Ikea

Etsy

Outer

Savvy Rest

Masaya & Co

Sabai

Vivaterra

Maiden Home

West ELM

Goodee

1. Giorgetti

Giorgetti is today one of the excellences of made in Italy design that has made sustainability a fundamental value, through a consistent Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) plan. The company statement reports that the wood used for the manufacturing of its products comes from controlled cultivation forests, the trees to be felled are selected with strict criteria and immediately replaced with new trees. Environmental sustainability standards are also taken into consideration in the choice of paints, all with a low content of chemical solvents, as well as in the packaging of the goods, where polystyrene has given way to recyclable cardboard. For the production process, in the logic of circular economy, the company transforms the waste of wood processing into energy that feeds the internal heating system of its plants. 

2. Lago

The production process of this company shows clear influences coming from the production and commercial philosophy of bio-building. The Lago factory is the symbol of the company's commitment to the respect for the environment and the constant effort to protect it. An example is the Lean Thinking principle, adopted by Lago, which suggests an efficient, sustainable production method that requires non-impacting materials, with high quality standards, in the production phase, and that reduces waste and the quantity of raw material used. The use of solvent-free, water-based paints that avoid the emission of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) allows for better air quality in production environments and maintains a low level of pollution (internal and external). The company has obtained the ISO 14001 certification, demonstrating its desire to plan its business according to the principles of environmental sustainability and circular economy.

3. Porada

Porada works with solid wood, transforming it with craftsmanship into iconic objects for the home. The company philosophy proposes furniture accessories made with precious materials and designed to last over time, as well as to survive the succession of industry trends. The company has long demonstrated its interest in respecting sustainable production standards. The wood being processed comes from certified forest areas of the French Burgundy, the packaging material of the finished products is 100% recyclable cardboard, the use of plastic material in production is minimal. Within the manufacturing plant, Porada has built a photovoltaic system that provides 100% of the energy needed, with a consequent significant reduction in CO2 emissions. The energy for the internal heating system is provided entirely by the combustion of processing waste, making the company entirely self-powered.

4. Kartell

“Kartell Loves the Planet” is the industrial manifesto with which Kartell, a leading Italian company, intends to underline its commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility. The passion for excellence that has guided Kartell's development since its origins has led the brand to focus on environmental respect and attention to eco-sustainability practices. The Kartell product is a timeless product, born with respect for ecology, destined to occupy museum galleries and collectors' heritage, at the end of its life cycle. The raw material used by Kartell is often entirely recyclable and finds new life thanks to industrial regeneration processes. Research and technological development make it possible to identify increasingly (and more easily) regenerable and non-impacting materials. Based on this production culture, Kartell develops its products and packaging. The entire production process chain sees the company committed to respecting sustainability protocols. To be highlighted are the investments of this company in technological and process innovation, aimed at the research of creative solutions and new, more performing and increasingly eco-friendly manufacturing materials.

5. Ecobalanza

Ecobalanza is a Seattle company making boutique and ethical upholstered furniture on-site using traditional techniques. The handmade furniture features natural and recycled materials that are non-toxic, with no polyfoams or composite wood with formaldehyde. Ecobalanza uses wool as a flame barrier, rather than chemicals. The company also sources eco-friendly fabrics (such as GOTS certified organic cotton) from its women-owned textile partner, Two Sisters Ecotextiles, located close by in Seattle. Couches feature hardwood frames that are sturdy and sustainable, made with FSC certified Alder and Western Maple. Ecobalanza uses sustainably harvested organic GOLS Dunlop latex to pad cushions. Inner wraps are made with certified organic merino wool for natural flame resistance. Traditional practices such as hand-tying steel coils with jute fibre cord help to make the furniture strong, comfortable, and sustainable. Ecobalanza only uses zero VOC wood stains and finishes. If you want a more stain-resistant couch, you can choose recycled polyester upholstery and Green Shield stain resistant treatment or leather (vegetable-tanned and free of heavy metals, as certified by the German natural textile association IVN, Germany’s fourth-largest farming Biokreis association, and ECARF Institute of the European Centre for Allergy Research Foundation). Ecobalanza offers a Couture Collection and can make custom designed couches, sectionals, loveseats, ottomans, and more. The idea is to make furniture you’ll love and that will last for generations to come, which is why Ecobalanza offers a lifetime guarantee on the frame, springing and structural craftsmanship of every EcoBalanza sofa, as well as a 10-year warranty on latex cushions, and a 5-year warranty on kapok cushions (though both can last far longer).

6. Avocado 

Avocado is a member of the Sustainable Furnishings Council and offers some of its favourite eco-friendly mattresses (for humans and pets). The company also offers a small range of beautiful bed frames, end tables, and dressers, made with reclaimed or FSC certified wood, though, meriting a mention on this list. Avocado is a certified B Corporation and one of the most ethical furniture brands around. The company uses materials free from heavy metals, formaldehyde, solvents, and other troublesome chemicals, and uses a zero-VOC sealant on its furniture. Thanks to Avocado’s smart designs, these pieces have no unnecessary handles, knobs. This means there are fewer components that can easily break, get lost, or that require glueing. Avocado is an ethical workplace, offering a variety of employee benefits. It is also a 1% for the Planet member and CarbonFree® Partner, offsetting 100% of emissions from shipping and factory operations. In addition, Avocado donates 2% of annual revenue (not just profit!) to EcoHealth Alliance, Breast Cancer Prevention Partners and others. The company also has a range of other charitable and sustainable initiatives and donates over 90% of returned items. that earns it top marks from us! While best known for their mattresses, Avocado Mattress has expanded to offering sustainable furniture. This non-toxic furniture brand is determined to maintain environmentally conscious, ethical, and sustainable business practices. They manage every part of the production of their organic, natural mattresses, from the wool to the latex – owning the farms that they come from and ensuring that they are both sustainable and ethically sourced. Along with the mattresses customers can shop bed frames, dressers, night stands, and dog beds. All of their furniture is ethically made in Los Angeles, where this brand focuses on traditional craftsmanship with state-of-the-art technology. You won’t find any nasty, VOC-emitting (volatile organic compound) glues or finishes in Avocado Mattress furniture.  Avocado was started in Hoboken in my home state of NJ. In the 6 years since its creation it now spans both coasts. With stores now in California and Washington, Avocado offers bedroom furniture and accessories that let you and the earth sleep easier. The whole production process is controlled by them. From the 200,000 animal sheep farms in India to production in California. They highlight all this in their own impact report. 

7. Emeco 

Emeco was founded in 1944 as a result of a commission to make non-corrosive, fire-resistant, and torpedo-proof chairs for the US Navy. So, if you’re looking for robust furniture, this is it! Nowadays, Emeco offers this classic 1006 Navy Chair (built to last 150 years at least) alongside a range of other items, including some beautiful bar stools, desk chairs, dining chairs, and shelving, all made from recycled and reclaimed materials. These materials include recycled aluminium from post-consumer soda cans and post-industrial manufacturing scrap. This metal has a significantly lower energy footprint than virgin aluminium but is just as strong. Other materials include cork, sustainably harvested or locally reclaimed wood, recycled PET (from water bottles and such), and glass. In 2010, Emeco made a 100% recyclable and recycled chair from 100 post-consumer bottles in collaboration with Coca-Cola. Excitingly, Emeco has even invented its own materials, including Eco Concrete made with recycled glass bottles and calcium sulfoaluminate cement. This material is great for outdoor furniture as it is weather resistant, and it uses significantly less energy to process and fire compared to regular cement. Other Emeco concoctions include Reclaimed Wood Polypropylene made with plastic scraps from factory floors and sawdust from lumber yards. In addition to using sustainable materials, Emeco uses VOC-free clear coat anodizing finishes on aluminium furniture and low-VOC finishes on wood pieces. The wood pieces are made by local Amish craftsmen while metal pieces are made in-house in the company’s LEED-certified family factory in Hanover, Pennsylvania. Some of the upholstery materials leave a bit to be desired, though the company does strive to use recycled leather, polyester, and other sustainable materials. Check listings carefully if you would rather avoid synthetics, leather, or conventional cotton or wool. Emeco is very transparent about its environmental product certifications and commitments. The company also runs an energy efficient factory with LED lighting, renewable power, and water conservation courtesy of specialised welding machines. While designs are created to minimise waste, any that does occur is reused or returned to recyclers. Products are shipped using 100% recyclable packaging materials and Emeco offers a chair-to-chair recycling program for plastic and aluminium furniture.

8. EcoFurnix

Eco-friendly furniture is a design trend for a sustainable meaningful life, existence, and gratitude to nature and creation by protecting the natural environment, using harmony and balance, favouring natural materials, can be recycled and reused, orient to sustainable and heritage thinking, bring beauty and pure, invisible energy to life. Those who choose a minimalist lifestyle and are grateful to nature, see it not only as a question of ethics and responsibility, but also highly aesthetic because of the sophistication that nature bestows. Its aesthetic is characterised by minimalist details, emulating the real elements of nature, bringing the spirit back to equilibrium and imparting peace, prosperity and ultimate happiness. It's great that the ECOFURNIX brand has taken on this leading mission. The ECOFURNIX is a circular eco-furniture trademark. This leading brand always aims to develop and support people physically and mentally in harmony with natural living space and environmental benefits. Products bearing the name of ECOFURNIX are researched and developed (R&D) by the ALLHOME DESIGN, one of the minimalist interior design brands with a full line of home furniture products including from Shelves, Tables & Chairs, Bed & cabinets, Scenery & Decoration, Integrated compact unit & versatile Utilities, Office furniture, Child-rearing, Family health & living space amenities to Gifts and Handicrafts. The price of the product is extremely affordable and the quality is excellent. Ecofurnix's products come from recycled, well-reusable woods (e.g. pallets, old wooden houses, native plants, recycled MDF, HDF, bamboo, rattan, cork, sedge…) with clear origins. improve, preserve and maintain activities from traditional craft villages.

9. Floyd 

Floyd makes beds, sofas, tables, storage, and accessories that are modular and sustainable. The company manufactures its products in the US using American grown wood that is mostly Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified. This helps to cut emissions associated with transporting raw materials, and helps preserve forests in other countries. Floyd operates with the ethos that “furniture should be made for the home, not the landfill.” This is why the company uses smart designs where individual pieces can be replaced or fixed if they break. This simple, stylish, modular design also means that many of the pieces, such as the Floyd bed can be easily converted, such as from a Queen to a King size (or vice versa). By 2025, Floyd has committed to launching a Resale and Refurbishment program, ensuring 70% of material comes from either recycled or renewable sources, minimising packing materials and eliminating single use plastics, and using 100% FSC certified wood across all products. The company also measures, discloses, and is committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions across its supply chain.

10. Medley 

Medley is a California based furniture company that uses sustainably sourced, eco-friendly materials to hand build well designed, sturdy and modern sofas, sectionals, storage, accent chairs, dining, office, and bedroom furniture, pouffes, benches, and ottoman, accent tables, and more. The company favours alder hardwood frames and certified organic Dunlop latex cushions with responsibly sourced down filling, but also offers CertiPur-US® poly foam cushioning at a lower cost. The company doesn’t use harsh chemical treatments or fire retardants, and uses zero-VOC glues, natural jute webbing, and organic fabrics in furniture linings. There are several organic fabric choices available for upholstery and most of the materials are Oeko-Tex 100, GOLS, GOTS, or Greenguard Gold certified. There is some wool in some Medley furniture, mostly as an upholstery fabric and filling for chairs and sofas. This wool is Oeko-Tex 100 certified and comes from well cared for sheep. Medley uses kiln-dried alder for its furniture frames and solid maple and walnut for tables and other (as well as some bamboo). The hardwoods are grown in the US, FSC certified, and treated only with non- or low-VOC waxes and stains. For drawer bottoms and sides of storage pieces, Medley uses lightweight FSC certified, low-VOC CARB 2 compliant plywood. To polish furniture, Medley uses Daddy Van’s mixture of natural beeswax, carnauba wax, and olive oil. The polish is USDA certified bio-based, odour-free, and free from unpleasant VOCs. The company is very transparent about materials and happy to answer questions via email or phone. Medley makes every item to order, so delivery can take a bit longer than an off-the-shelf model. It ships to every US state and Canada and can ship to almost anywhere else in the world. It offers a lifetime warranty on alder hardwood frames, and most sofas do not require assembly (with the exception of those with longer legs). The company offers a 100-day trial and free returns. Medley wins extra points at Leaf Score because for every tree used to make its furniture, the company plants three trees in partnership with the National Forest Foundation. A single alder tree can make around three Medley sofas or one large sectional, according to the company, and the trees used in Medley furniture can take 25-40 years to mature. Founded in 2005, Medley Furniture is handcrafted in California using eco-friendly materials such as American hardwood from FSC-certified suppliers, bamboo, foam created using either natural latex foam (certified organic by The Global Organic Latex Standard), or polyester foam certified by CertiPUR-US, and more.  Medley aims to create furniture that you will bond with for years to come. They offer furniture for the whole house made from a variety of natural materials; bamboo, Alder, organic dunlop latex, natural wool, and it’s even polished with beeswax. With Medley you know your furniture came from the ground and will make your house feel like a home.Sustainability: CertiPUR-US®-certified Foam, FSC-certified forests, Made in the USA, OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 Wool.

11. Ikea 

IKEA has committed to only using plastic based on renewable or recycled material by 2030. The company phased out all single-use plastic products from the global home furnishing range in January 2020. Other products will be made with biobased plastic from renewable sources like corn, sugar beet and sugar cane. You may also have noticed an increasing number of plant-based foods in the IKEA food hall and market in recent years. This is part of the company’s move to promote more sustainable lifestyle choices. For us consumers, the trick is to only buy things you actually need and to choose the most sustainable products. This largely means sticking to simple softwood items made with pine wood from sustainable sources. Other good options include outdoor furniture made with acacia, a durable and rot-resistant wood from FSC certified plantations. Interestingly, IKEA has acknowledged that unsustainable consumption is one of its biggest challenges and has committed to figuring out ways to prolong the life of its products and make them easier to repurpose, repair, reuse, resell and recycle as part of the circular economy. The company as a whole has adopted ethical hiring practices that are inclusive and diverse, and it runs a variety of employment and education programs focusing on youth, people with disabilities, older adults, and migrants, refugees, and women who face barriers to entering the workplace.

12. Etsy 

Etsy offers some amazing, unique, eco-friendly, sustainable furniture in its Reclaimed Furniture category. You can find real bargains here, and your purchase supports small business owners. The only downside is that these smaller scale operators don’t have splashy environmental reports and sustainability goals neatly laid out for potential buyers, so you’ll often have to ask about the exact materials and finishes used in each piece. This Etsy category has a lot of turnover, with one-off pieces popping up nearly constantly and going just as fast. Creative furniture makers offer driftwood coffee tables, oak barrel wine racks, live edge coat stands, unique headboards and doors, all manner of woven raffia chairs, benches, tables, and more. Materials most common in this category include salvaged lumber, fallen logs, driftwood, pallets, and upcycled metal such as iron piping. Given that these materials come with various potential safety concerns, you’ll want to have a clear idea of what you’re buying before finalising a deal. In general, I’d steer clear of any items intended for babies or small children. Unlike new furniture made and sold in the US, these one-off items are not subjected to rigorous safety testing or testing for heavy metal contaminants.

Two good places to start are Reclaimed Wood USA and Urban Billy. These US-based sustainable furniture brands use reclaimed materials to make farmhouse inspired furniture for the modern home. Another nice thing about Etsy Reclaimed is that these small scale operators typically work to order and out of their own homes or studios. This means less waste and fewer overheads associated with big factories and large runs of items that may go unsold. If you’re able, try to find local sellers. This helps to keep carbon emissions low and means you’re more likely to get a piece made with materials that grow near to you. Happily, though, Etsy offsets all carbon emissions associated with shipping! Many of the sellers also donate a percentage of sales to charities.

13. Outer

Outer will make you fall in love with your backyard all over again. The sustainable furniture brand offers a range of durable, comfortable, and sustainable outdoor furniture pieces like sectionals, outdoor dining sets, tables, fire pits and accessories like outdoor rugs and bug shield blankets. Outer considers every element that goes into their products for durability, environmental impact, and comfort, ensuring their pieces meet exceptionally high standards. To ensure quality their teak, aluminium and wicker sofas and chairs have a 10 year warranty, while their cushions, teak & aluminium dining tables and chairs have a 5 year warranty. As Outer values circular design their entire outdoor sofa sets are recyclable at the end of their use. The frame is made of aluminium, foams can be easily shredded and repurposed as carpet padding and every plastic used falls into international recycling codes 2, 4, and 5.   To further their sustainability efforts Outer is  certified Carbon Neutral and part of 1% for the planet.

14. Savvy Rest

Virginia-based brand Savvy Rest offers sleek, modern sofas, loveseats, and armchairs made of organic fabrics, natural latex, sustainably-sourced maple hardwood, and zero-VOC stains. Savvy rest allows you to customise almost every aspect of each piece including fabric (organic cotton, organic hemp, or a blend of the two), fabric colour, seat cushion firmness and arm height to suit your individual style. The furniture pieces are designed with people and the planet in mind and don’t contain chemical flame retardants, formaldehyde glue, metal coils, particle board, plywood or veneer. Savvy Rest is both an employee-owned company and a certified B Corp which means it has higher social and environmental standards than the average business.

15. Masaya & Co

This sustainable furniture store creates handcrafted, handwoven furniture in Nicaragua using hardwood grown on their reforestation project, which manages over 1100 acres of trees. This sustainable furniture brand’s range includes armchairs, barstools, beds, bed frames, benches, bookshelves, credenzas, desks, dining chairs, dressers, lounge chairs, love seats, nightstands, ottomans, rocking chairs, side tables, sofas and stools. Each time you buy a product from Masaya & Co, they plant trees. So far, the company has planted more than 900,000 trees and currently employs 150 artisans in the region. 

16. Sabai

When it comes to style, comfort and sustainability, Sabai truly sets itself apart in the industry. Ethically made in North Carolina, Sabai sources 90% of materials locally including FSC-certified wood, and Certipur-US certified foam. Sabai believes in closed-loop solutions and that’s why their furniture is made from upcycled water bottles. The brand makes eco-friendly sofas, sectionals, loveseats and ottomans that are affordable, easy to assemble and are both modular and customizable. You get to choose the cushions, fabric and legs that will be used and the final product will be shipped to you in as little as six weeks. Sabai aims to reduce the 12 million tons of furniture waste Americans create every year. Through their Repair Don’t Replace program, they offer repairs and replacement components so that their pieces can keep being used for longer and stay out of landfill. They also have a Closed Loop Program that buys back old Sabai furniture, refurbishes and sells the pieces and gives the owner 20% of the revenue. Sabai makes going green simple. With a curated selection of environmentally friendly furniture for the living room, they help remove the decision overload that comes with a lot of brands. This comes with the added benefit that all their items come with replaceable parts. Keeping your furniture pieces feeling fresh and new for as long as you want. And when you are ready to move on they offer the Sabai: Revive Program. With Sabai: Revive you can purchase a refreshed second hand sofa and have your old one picked up for 20% of resale price. Sustainability: replacement components, trade-ins/revive pieces,sustainable materials, FSC certified, Made in USA, local materials.

17. VivaTerra

VivaTerra is an online shop dedicated to bringing an eco-friendly lifestyle to every part of your home decor, furniture, and more. While Viva Terra carries a wide range of furniture from suppliers with different values there are plenty of non-toxic pieces, furniture made with recyclable materials, and more. 

18. Maiden Home

Founded in 2015 by Nihdi Kapur, Maiden Home offers handmade furniture. They span the east coast with Designers in New York and the craftsmen in South Carolina. On their website you can purchase pieces for both the dining room and living room. This includes sofas, sectionals, stools and chairs. Their website also shows you their entire production process broken down to the fabrics. This is the type of radical transparency us green folks like to see. Sustainability: Made in USA; made-to-order, responsibly sourced, CertiPUR-US® & GREENGUARD Gold certified pieces

19. West ELM

“Good for people, good for the planet” is a mantra that West Elm runs on. Despite their substantial collection of furniture, 95% of their pieces are handcrafted in house in their Brooklyn studios. Their sourcing of sustainable cotton saved 2.3 billion litres of water in 2019. Sustainability: FSC certified materials, made in USA, Fair Trade, eco-friendly materials, gives back, Greenguard gold standard.

20. Goodee

Started in 2017 by brothers Bryon and Dexter Peart; they looked to create a marketplace that empowered niche artisans and environmental brands alike. It has a wide array of products from kids to outdoor. Its furniture selection offers products from brands such as Emeco and Ecobirdy among others. In 2020 it published its first impact report, outlining Goodee’s environmental and social goals. One highlight is that 97% of their products are sustainably and ethically sourced. Sustainability: Certified b corp, showcases indigenous crafts, Carbon neutral shipping, impact report.

(This article is compiled from diverse sources and disclaimer of liability)

[northamptoncouplestherapy]

What to Do While You Wait for a Couples Therapist

Getting in with the right couples therapist can make or break whether your relationship thrives or withers. Given that, finding a couples therapist who checks all the boxes is non-negotiable. So, as you search for a couples therapist, I encourage you to ask important questions, like:

How much experience do you (the therapist) have with couples?

What specialized training and certifications in couples therapy do you have?

Do you use models (approaches) that are evidence-informed?

What percentage of the clients that you treat are couples (versus individuals)?

How long have you been working with couples?

And you will want to be looking for one answer: Experience. Experience. Experience.

I encourage you also to pay attention to your gut and whether or not you like the therapist (their personality, vibe, tone). Mutual rapport is critical and should not be underestimated.

Lastly, while you wait to find the right couples therapist, know there is a ton you can do. Here are my recommendations to get you started:

Educate yourself.

Now more than ever, there are fantastic resources to support you in making positive changes and cultivating tools to improve your relationship struggles and get unstuck. Books, podcasts, apps, and videos are available digitally, and many offer advice and information that is game-changing in love when you take the time to learn and apply them. Here are some of my favorite recommendations; gems I turn to repeatedly. In the meantime, if you can’t wait, send me an email, and I’d be happy to share a suggestion or two.

Be flexible.

Often, you can get into therapy more quickly if you can commit to a day slot (evenings are in much higher demand). Likewise, not all therapists accept all insurances. If you can pay out-of-pocket (or submit to your insurance for reimbursement), you will expand your options of therapists that you can see. When you inquire about couples therapy, make sure that you let us know if/when and how you can be flexible. We will note it and do our best to find you a therapist based on this information. I assure you, if you can provide us with multiple options, we will be able to offer you more choices.

Be open to alternative forms of help.

Before COVID19, most couples contacting NCCT were only interested in weekly in-person couples therapy. It was familiar and what we felt comfortable with. Other options, like online couples coaching and one-off marriage intensives, seemed less legitimate, and we were skeptical. Since then, we’ve learned a lot—there are many ways to improve and facilitate change in your relationship besides attending couples therapy (as helpful as it is).

For example, we offer one-off 4.5-hour mini-intensives that, for many couples, can be just what is needed to get support regarding a particular issue. These mini-intensive are often easier to get in for, and they pave the way for you (and your partner) to do a portion of couples work while you pursue finding a couples therapist.

Take a class.

When I first created my signature digital class, Crisis to Connected, the central question I kept landing on was whether or not a digital course could help people with relationship challenges.

Could an online class be as helpful as therapy or support couples in therapy by speeding along the process?

I pride myself on offering highly practical, doable, and well-researched services. I was aiming for a product that was affordable, accessible, and would act as a catalyst for couples in crisis.

Over the past two years, I have learned that a relationship class is even more effective for many couples than couples therapy. I’m thrilled to be offering the course (which includes live interaction and coaching support from me for the duration) twice a year. You can get on my waiting list for C2C HERE. (I plan to launch the fall 2022 class in October).

In the meantime, know I’m holding you in my thoughts, and please give me a shout if you have a question or feedback.

Click here to schedule an appointment.