Four questions that will determine the future of business for good

"In our study, one third of consumers reported boycotting specific companies or brands because they were not socially responsible, and 31% said they had encouraged family or friends to avoid a company or product because it was not socially responsible. In spirit, this enthusiasm is a positive. However, it is important to evaluate where we are setting the bar for brands."

"In the midst of economic uncertainty, polarizing politics, global conflict and a future that is largely out of focus, many consumers are continuing to fight the good fight when it comes to using their dollars to drive positive change. It's the 13th year that I have helped run an annual survey on the momentum of socially responsible spending, nonprofit giving, and earth friendly practices, called the Conscious Consumer Spending Index."

A 13th-year annual survey called the Conscious Consumer Spending Index found that consumers maintain support for purposeful companies despite worsening views of the world. A majority of respondents said they actively support purposeful companies, and roughly a third plan to increase socially responsible spending in 2026. Four mission-critical issues require consideration as stakeholders enter the new year. One key issue questions whether social responsibility is an all-or-nothing proposition: one third of consumers reported boycotting companies for lacking responsibility, and 31% had encouraged others to avoid such companies. The data stresses evaluating standards and distinguishing bad actors from companies striving to improve.

Read at Fast Company