TheWorks.co.uk sustainability score: 44/100

Second carbon balance sheet completed FY24 with FY23 baseline. Scope 1 and 2 tracked across 503 stores and distribution centre. Only percentage changes reported; no absolute tonnes disclosed. Scope 2 increased 7% vs FY23. No GHG Protocol confirmation or third-party verification obtained.

Scope 3 comprises >99% of footprint; purchased goods identified as largest driver. Paper product spend down 22%, reducing emissions 9.8% vs FY23. Works with ~220 suppliers across UK, Europe, Asia. No supplier emissions data or carbon engagement programme disclosed. Verisio partnership covers ethical audit only.

Total emissions fell 8% vs FY23, 9% vs FY22 baseline. Scope 3 down 8.7% vs FY23, driven largely by lower paper product spending rather than structural decarbonisation. Scope 2 increased 7%, indicating no operational energy progress. Two years of data. No third-party verification.

No renewable energy tariffs, PPAs, RE100 membership, or decarbonisation plan disclosed. Scope 2 consumption up 7% vs FY23. Operates 503 stores and 157,000 sq ft distribution centre. FY25 plans limited to behaviour change and landlord engagement; no renewable action.

FSC-certified books increased 45% to 60% FY23; targeting 75% by end FY25. Shrink wrap removed from 95% of kids' jigsaws; 30% recycled content targeted in plastic ranges. No TNFD disclosure, no deforestation policy beyond FSC books, no biodiversity assessment. Asian supply chain nature risks unaddressed.

Shrink wrap removed 95% of kids' jigsaws; targeting 50% imported plastic with 30%+ recycled content FY25. Play It Forward scheme with Barnardo's enables product donation and reuse. Targeting improved recycling rates across stores, DC, and support centre. No verified metrics or comprehensive circular economy framework.

No water consumption data, targets, or stewardship information published. Retail and distribution operations have inherently low water intensity—sanitation use only. No manufacturing or chemical processes. Zero formal monitoring or disclosure despite genuinely low operational water impact.

Net Zero Scope 1 by 2035, Scope 2 by 2030, Scope 3 by 2045 (ambition 2040, aligned with BRC Climate Action Roadmap). Specific timelines and reduction-first approach. No SBTi validation or science-based methodology confirmation. No absolute tonnes progress reported. Targets lack independent external validation.

Board holds ESG accountability. Corporate website publishes sustainability, environment, and supply chain data; included in annual report and preliminary results RNS. Dedicated sourcing manager and QA team recruited FY24. No standalone sustainability report, third-party verification, TCFD/CSRD disclosure, or executive compensation linkage to sustainability targets.

No greenwashing allegations, ASA rulings, regulatory fines, or NGO criticism identified. No evidence of climate policy opposition or problematic trade association activity. Member of BRC Climate Action Roadmap, a positive climate alignment. No environmental controversies on record.