Kiwi consumers’ shopping habits are shifting towards sustainability practices, according to Retail NZ.

A Colmar Brunton survey the retail body commissioned found that 86 per cent of respondents said they would change the retailers or products in order to be more sustainable. More than half of consumers surveyed said their top concern is excessive and non-recyclable packaging and plastic bags.

“There is growing demand from customers for sustainable products and services, although customers aren’t necessarily following through on their intentions,” said Greg Harford, chief executive at Retail NZ.

“Retailers are committed to delivering better outcomes for the planet, their customers and for the people who work in their supply chains.

“Substantial progress has already been made over the past few years and as consumers increasingly shop through a sustainability lens, we look forward to seeing even greater gains across the retail sector.”

The survey also asked consumers to identify retailers they consider to be a sustainability leader. Those include The Warehouse, New World, Countdown and Eco Store.