Sustainability at the core, along with reduced cost and brand consistency, are our key priorities, and our merchandise strategy reflects this commitment.
When to use merchandise
Deciding when to use merchandise requires thoughtful consideration of several factors that influence our business practices and values. Balancing these elements can be challenging, so we focus on selecting the approach that best aligns with our objectives.
Key factors to consider
Business Need
Ask yourself if the merchandise serve a purpose like enchancing customer interaction or foster employee engagement?
Sustainability Responsibility
Is it reusalbe for recurrent events and activities? Does it adhere to our sustainability guidelines, reflecting our dedication to environmental responsibility? If not, consider a different option.
Brand Consistency
All merchandise must align with our one-brand strategy and follow Nordea’s brand guidelines.
Cost Efficiency
Choose cost-efficient solutions that deliver real value while minimizing waste and unnecessary spend.
Product Responsibility
At IDÉ House of Brands, we work proactively to ensure that all merchandise offered to Nordea meets high standards for sustainability, quality, and product safety.
Our sustainability and compliance teams collaborate closely with suppliers to secure proper testing, documentation, and responsible production practices. Through ongoing dialogue and monitoring, we help ensure that all products meet current requirements and are prepared for future regulations.
By continuously challenging ourselves and our partners, we aim to deliver responsible choices across the entire merchandise lifecycle – supporting Nordea’s sustainability ambitions every step of the way.
Sustainability Criteria
These principles guide how we select and approve products for the webshop:
Materials
- Avoid single-use items and virgin plastics
- Prefer rPET, recycled/recyclable materials, and carbon-neutral options
- Choose long-lasting materials with solid warranties
- Select certified products (FSC, Swan, GOTS) or responsible small suppliers
Production
- Prefer local or EU production; non-EU sites must have SA8000, BSCI, or similar certification
Biodiversity
- Select products that protect biodiversity and avoid deforestation
Supply Chain
- Prioritize transparent supply chains with few intermediaries
- Work with suppliers that prevent and address issues such as bonded or child labour
Transport & Packaging
- Choose low-carbon transport (train/sea over air)
- Use resource-efficient packaging
Lead Time
- Order early to avoid overtime production and allow sustainable transport
Merchandise Guidelines
Nordea’s merchandise guidelines provide clear direction on branding, sustainability, and responsible product selection.
They outline:
• When merchandise should be used
• Requirements for branding and the use of the Nordea logo
• Rules for messages on merchandise
• Sustainability considerations in all product decisions
Together, we create responsible merchandise solutions with a smaller footprint.
We take a long-term perspective on product use, sustainability, and brand stewardship to ensure our merchandise supports Nordea’s strategy and contributes to a more sustainable future.