Far beyond a trend, adopting sustainable practices has become a real competitive advantage. With consumers increasingly aware of the environmental impact of their choices, small businesses have found sustainability to be a strategic path to growth, customer loyalty, and market differentiation. A survey by Ilumeo revealed that 75% of respondents are familiar with the “Eu Reciclo” (I Recycle) seal. The study also shows that sustainable certifications are already among the four most important factors in purchasing decisions, surpassing even recommendations from friends. 86% of respondents consider environmentally sound products essential.
This behavior reflects a consumer who is increasingly engaged and attentive to companies’ sustainable practices. In this scenario, businesses that combine efficiency, purpose, and environmental responsibility gain an advantage over the competition. This is the case with KoalaCar, a microfranchise offering dry cleaning services for vehicles, offering low costs, fast turnaround, and environmental awareness. A conventional wash consumes over 300 liters of water, but with the company’s products, this figure is zero.
“In addition to reducing water consumption, we also use biodegradable products, dry cleaning techniques, and offer delivery services, which reduces emissions from unnecessary travel,” says Marco Lisboa, CEO and founder of KoalaCar.
Since 2019 with the brand, KoalaCar’s CEO listed three other points and advantages for investing in sustainable businesses:
Brand appreciation
Adopting a sustainable approach doesn’t necessarily mean high investment. Small businesses can start with simple measures, such as reducing waste, conserving water, reusing materials, using energy wisely, and using environmentally friendly products.
More aware public
Consumers around the world have come to value brands with a clear purpose and environmental and social responsibility. Businesses that communicate these actions effectively achieve greater engagement on social media, increased word-of-mouth recommendations, and customer loyalty, even in highly competitive segments.
No return path
With pressure for ESG targets also reaching large chains, small businesses that have already adapted are ahead of the curve when it comes to being considered ideal suppliers or partners by larger companies, which are seeking to align the entire value chain with the sustainable agenda.
“Implementing ESG means committing to being a relevant, ethical, and sustainable company, capable of generating value for all stakeholders and contributing to building a better future. With the franchise’s future in mind, we’re also launching electric bicycles and motorcycles, as well as battery-powered vacuum cleaners for cleaning. Our eco-friendly cleaning fabrics can withstand up to 500 washes with mild coconut soap and minimal water, as KoalaCar’s goal is to continually improve environmental awareness and, of course, generate less waste,” explains the brand’s CEO.
