CSR and Sustainability

At UOE Store, we take pride that our growing network of retail stores not only provides quality products to our valued customers but also strives to make a positive impact on the environment and society. We believe we have a duty to actively contribute to the well-being of the planet and the communities we serve. Our commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility is deeply ingrained in our business practices, and we are continuously working to improve and expand our initiatives to create a more sustainable future for generations to come.

Deliveries: We are dedicated to minimizing our carbon emissions and reducing our overall environmental footprint. Over 70% of our intra-branch deliveries are conducted using hybrid or fully electric vehicles. By opting for eco-friendly delivery methods, we actively contribute to cleaner air and a healthier environment for our local communities.

Community Engagement: At UOE Store, we believe that strong communities are the backbone of a thriving society. We actively engage with the communities surrounding our stores through various initiatives. From supporting local charities and educational programs to organizing events that bring people together, we are committed to giving back to the communities that support us.

Some of our recent good causes include Alopecia UK, Isabel Hospice, Jewish Care, Spread a Smile, Martins School, Archer Academy, Children in Need, NSPCC and London Air Ambulance.

Cut Sheet Papers: We understand the significance of preserving our forests and protecting biodiversity. Therefore, all our cut sheet papers come from sustainable sources, ensuring responsible forest management. We exclusively source recycled products from approved and traceable sources, reducing our reliance on virgin materials and minimizing the impact on natural habitats.

Greeting Cards:
Our greeting cards are a symbol of care and thoughtfulness towards our loved ones, and we extend this sentiment to the environment as well. Our greeting cards are sourced from within the UK, printed on Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified or recycled stock, using water-based inks that are eco-friendly. They are sold unwrapped on in plastic-free, recyclable cello. Even the glitter we use is recyclable! By 2025 we will have removed more than 500,000 plastic wraps from our greetings cards.

Packaging: We recognize the role packaging plays in contributing to environmental waste, and as such, we are committed to making positive changes. Almost all of our packaging range is UK-sourced and manufactured and is either made for recycled materials and/or is recyclable. We are constantly adding new eco-friendly alternatives to our product mix include recyclable mailing bags, zero plastic tape, biodegradable adhesives and even recyclable bubblewrap.

Stationery: Our stationery products undergo a rigorous environmental assurance process. Many of our items are either fully or partially recycled, FSC approved and/or 100% recyclable, ensuring that our customers can make sustainable choices without compromising on quality. Moreover, we are actively working to minimize packaging waste and reduce single-use plastic items in our range. As part of our sustainability efforts, we continuously explore opportunities to swap out conventional products for biodegradable and zero plastic alternatives.

Ink Cartridges: Recognizing the environmental impact of discarded ink cartridges, we have implemented a recycling program to ensure these items do not end up in landfills. By participating in our recycling initiative, customers can join us in reducing electronic waste and promoting the responsible disposal of printer cartridges.

Our employees are the heart of our business, and their well-being is of utmost importance to us. We foster a positive and inclusive work environment that values diversity, promotes work-life balance, and encourages professional growth. 

We invest in training and development opportunities, ensuring that our team is equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide the best service to our customers.

UOE is an Equal Opportunity Employer and as such, we are committed not only to observing employment legislation but also to the promotion of equality of opportunity in employment. We discriminate only on ability!

Our journey towards a more sustainable and socially responsible future is ongoing. We regularly assess our CSR initiatives, set ambitious goals, and strive for continuous improvement. We actively seek feedback from our customers, employees, and partners to refine our practices and ensure that we remain at the forefront of CSR in the retail and stationery industry.

We believe that ethical sourcing is a fundamental aspect of our responsibility as a retailer. We strive to work with suppliers who share our values and demonstrate a commitment to sustainable practices and fair working conditions. By engaging in transparent and responsible partnerships, we aim to create a supply chain that promotes ethical practices and supports local economies.

At UOE Store, we recognize that every action we take, no matter how small, has an impact on the world around us. With a strong commitment to environmental sustainability, community engagement, and ethical business practices, we aim to be a positive force for change. As we continue this journey, we invite our customers, employees, and partners to join us in making a meaningful difference and shaping a better, more sustainable future together.