Balancing Financial Performance and Sustainability Goals: The Influence of Key Drivers on the Use of Eco-Innovation in the Dutch Retail Sector

Kraaijveld, Hidde (2025) Balancing Financial Performance and Sustainability Goals: The Influence of Key Drivers on the Use of Eco-Innovation in the Dutch Retail Sector. Master thesis, Sustainable Entrepreneurship (SE).

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Abstract

This study investigates how key external drivers; government regulation, consumer demand, and competitive pressure, influence the adoption of eco-innovation in the Dutch retail sector, and how this process helps reconcile financial firm performance with sustainability goals. Using a qualitative research approach, semi-structured interviews were conducted with sustainability professionals from five major non-food retailers and an ESG director. A conceptual model was developed to show how key drivers and its underlying mechanisms shape eco-innovation. The findings reveal that retailers incorporate eco-innovation at the product level by applying sustainability criteria to both product development and suppliers. Additionally, eco-innovation is implemented through the provision of sustainable services. At the process level, efforts are directed toward minimizing material and energy consumption to improve operational efficiency and environmental performance. At the organizational level, the extent to which eco-product and eco-process innovations are strategically embedded within the company determines the depth of eco-innovation adoption. While these measures help bridge the gap between financial and environmental objectives, the study underscores the importance of consistent and supportive government policy. It also highlights the need for further research into internal drivers and the quantifiable outcomes of eco-innovation.

Item Type:	Thesis (Master)
Name supervisor:	Unal, A.B.
Date Deposited:	14 Jul 2025 13:23
Last Modified:	14 Jul 2025 13:23
URI:	https://campus-fryslan.studenttheses.ub.rug.nl/id/eprint/700

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