Thinking smart about logistical aspects of the business can improve footprints and consumer perceptions. And yet, a key finding in the report was that less than 60 per cent of retail chains reported having GSCM practices already in place. While it seems that some businesses have not yet made the connection between sustainable practices and cost savings, it is certainly understood at office supply giant Staples, which is reaping the rewards of their green initiatives. The chain, in partnership with MIT, found that although an electric delivery truck cost almost $100,000 more than the standard diesel delivery truck, it cost 9 to 12 per cent less to run and would pay for itself (and then some) over the course of standard operations. A switch was therefore made towards electric delivery vehicles, resulting in cost savings and a public relations coup. While smaller retailers don't have the resources for such headlight-grabbing initiatives, Best-in-Class (BIC) companies do a number of things within their distribution centres and stores that can be emulated by businesses of any size interested in 'greening' their operations. www.retailcouncil.org/cdnretailer Tips for all businesses: Energy management control Employment of reusable/sustainable pallets Installation and maintenance of dock seals and canopies Paperless DC processes Motion detector lights Recycling of waste Optimized space utilization fall 2014 | cANADIAN REtAILER | 15http://www.retailcouncil.org/cdnretailer