MVO Nederland has announced the addition of IKEA and Bol to its network of sustainable companies, which includes approximately 2,000 organisations dedicated to fostering a sustainable economy that respects both nature and societal needs. Ankie van Wersch, the director of MVO Nederland, expressed enthusiasm about the involvement of these significant players, emphasising the necessity of innovative thinking to advance sustainable solutions. The partnership aims to amplify efforts toward a greener future by leveraging the strengths of its members, including IKEA and Bol.

IKEA is making significant strides in its pursuit of a circular economy, as highlighted by Sandra Schouten, CFO and deputy CEO & CSO of IKEA Netherlands. The company aims to ensure that all its products are designed with circularity in mind by 2030. Initiatives such as buy-back programs for used furniture, mattress recycling services, and the provision of spare parts are part of IKEA’s commitment to making repair and reuse simple and accessible. By joining MVO Nederland, IKEA seeks to collaborate with like-minded companies to further its sustainability goals.

Bol is also aligning with the mission of MVO Nederland, taking concrete measures to promote responsible consumer choices. CEO Margaret Versteden noted that Bol is dedicated to guiding customers towards sustainable options, including refurbished electronics and products marked with sustainability labels verified by Milieu Centraal. The company’s long-term vision is to normalise circular practices in the Netherlands and Belgium. Through collaboration with MVO Nederland, Bol aims to unite with other businesses to enhance this transition and share valuable insights.

The integration of IKEA and Bol into MVO Nederland’s network marks a significant expansion, with over 170 new partners joining in 2024. Ankie van Wersch views this growth as a promising development, indicating that the sustainable solutions needed to drive change are already available; the focus now shifts to implementing and scaling these initiatives. With the inclusion of IKEA and Bol, MVO Nederland enters a new phase that promises greater influence on policy and economic practices, encouraging the broader business community to join in the commitment to sustainability.