Findings from the just-released 2019 Leaders Survey by GlobeScan and SustainAbility, an ERM Company, show that, while still trailing Unilever, Patagonia and IKEA have made substantial gains in recognition for sustainability leadership over the past year. The gap between the top tier and second tier in this annual ranking has narrowed, as Unilever’s long-standing dominance has declined.

The Leaders Survey has tracked global expert opinions on the evolution of the sustainability agenda since 1997 as well as stakeholders’ views on which companies are leaders and why. This survey has never been more timely given the growing interest in sustainable business from investors, consumers, governments and NGOs.

Over 800 experts in 78 countries were asked, unprompted, to name companies that they see as being leaders in integrating sustainability into their business strategy.

Unilever continues to be seen as the global leader on sustainability, with mentions from 37 percent of sustainability experts responding. While the company still holds a dominant leadership position, now for the eighth year in a row, its 2019 ranking is down 10 points in comparison with 2018 (47%).

Patagonia is once again in second place (at 27%, up four points compared to 2018), and IKEA continues to rise up the leaderboard (13%, up four points compared to 2018).

Interface sits in fourth position at nine percent (down one point compared to 2018) and Natura ranks fifth at eight percent (up four points compared to 2018), which is the Brazilian company’s strongest showing in the history of this survey.

Danone ranks in sixth position at seven percent (up three points compared to 2018) and Tesla moves down to ninth position at four percent (down two points compared to 2018).

BASF returns to the leaderboard in 2019 in tenth position, having dropped off for the past two years.

When asked to identify leaders headquartered in their own regions, experts in Latin America and North America pick clear leaders: Natura (58%) and Patagonia (36%), respectively. Natura leads by the widest margin in Latin America.

In Europe, experts mention Unilever and IKEA as regional leaders in sustainability.

In Asia-Pacific, Toyota (10%) and Tata (7%) are the most recognized companies headquartered in the region. Experts in Asia-Pacific are least able to identify a regional leader, and also cited a wide range of local companies.

This study was conducted in partnership with Sustainable Brands. The full report will be made available later in June 2019.

About GlobeScan

GlobeScan is an insights and strategy consultancy, focused on helping our clients build long-term trusting relationships with their stakeholders. Offering a suite of specialist research and advisory services, we partner with business, NGOs and governmental organizations to meet strategic objectives across reputation, sustainability and purpose. Established in 1987, GlobeScan has offices in Cape Town, Hong Kong, London, Paris, San Francisco, São Paulo and Toronto, is a participant of the UN Global Compact and a Certified B Corporation.

About SustainAbility

SustainAbility, an ERM Group Company, is a global think tank and advisory firm. Our vision is a just and sustainable world for present and future generations. Through our agenda-setting research and advocacy, we chart new territory and help business leaders and their stakeholders understand what’s next. Through our advisory services, we help clients understand the shifting landscape of risk and opportunity, develop practical strategies and initiatives, and foster authentic, impactful engagement and collaboration with a range of stakeholders. Learn more at www.SustainAbility.com