SIGWATCH

In the last few weeks, a number of American companies have retreated from diversity and inclusion frameworks following pressure from 'anti-woke' activists. This is likely to be just the beginning. Where did this anti-DEI activism originate, how does it work and what can businesses do to prepare? We've prepared a briefing unpacking the clamour around the recent campaigns and capitulations, to help companies better understand the situation as it unfolds. Do get in touch here if you have additional questions: https://lnkd.in/eQbbZgjj

Corporate risk is no longer just a function of market challenges and operational compliance. Firms must now grapple with ESG risks, from stakeholder demands to tightening regulation to environmental concerns. But how do you identify such risks? Monitoring emerging issues from activist campaigning could be one way. Our latest piece dives into how best-practice risk analysis can create opportunities for your business while helping to mitigate problems provided firms know where to look.

We will be exhibiting at the 4th Sustainable Foods Conference in January 2025! SIGWATCH will be there to talk activism insights for F&D companies, and the value of engaging with activist campaigning. NGOs are first-mover stakeholders and can significantly alter your operating environment. Looking forward to conversations around making our food systems more sustainable and resilient with executives from across industry. If you are in London in January, pop down to Sustainable Foods and let's chat!

In global politics, the actors and institutions that effect change include far more than just our national governments and leaders. Appreciating the nature of these actors is key to understanding how issues and ideas transcend borders, and eventually, interact with businesses. Caitlyn Duke breaks down the roles and responsibilities of three key actors - Intergovernmental Organisations, International Non-Governmental Organisations and Non-Governmental Organisations - to demystify their influence on other stakeholders. Read below ⬇️

NGO engagement begins with listening to activist discourse and paying attention to the issues and stakeholder landscape. MD Charlotte Moore in conversation with Hussein Allawi discusses how companies need to set aside bias and listen to the issues raised by activist groups to track which issues are likely to escalate into risks. SIGWATCH is going to be at Sustainable Foods in January to dive deeper into the issues plaguing F&D firms and what meaningful engagement with civil society stakeholders can look like. Hope to see you there!

One of the more significant changes in the business operating landscape has been the rise and rise of ESG in corporate culture. As activists are often the first reporters of negative business impacts, they can be a valuable resource in coming to grips with your firm's ESG concerns. Read through our primer below to learn about top risks for your industry and how NGO engagement can supplement your ESG performance ⬇

Climate activism is pushing hard to influence stakeholder sentiment on the energy sector, but is this intense focus reflected in impact?   How do climate groups challenge the energy sector to change? And how are industries responding to the demand for a green future? Read our Head of Research David Hamon's latest piece decoding this dynamic. #climateactivism #energysector #sigwatch #sustainability

Corporate activism is transforming as companies vie to play a vital role in driving positive social, environmental, and ethical change. Today’s brands are taking stands on values that resonate with their customers and influence a more sustainable, responsible future. Despite potential benefits, corporate activism also carries significant risks, especially when it’s poorly planned and doesn’t match the company’s actions and priorities. Check out our MD Charlotte Moore's thoughts on the rise of corporate activism and how it can shape responsible business decision-making. #corporateactivism #sigwatch

Sustainability isn't just a trend—it's a key driver of consumer loyalty. At SIGWATCH, we understand how ethical practices and environmental responsibility can impact brand perception. Companies that prioritize sustainability are better positioned to build trust, enhance customer retention, and stay ahead in an evolving market. And paying attention to NGO campaigning can help you achieve that. Check out our latest piece by Robert Blood to learn more. #consumerloyalty #sigwatch #sustainability

Why should companies which are under activists' radars be paying even closer attention to activism? 👇 For companies which are common targets of activist campaigns, it's important to monitor activism to understand what is being said, and identify where action needs to be taken. However, if your firm sees almost no targeting, why should you care? Because you have a huge opportunity to see what might be coming down the pipeline. By seeing what other companies are being praised/criticised for, you can be proactive and make adjustments or clarifications BEFORE your credentials are called into question, not after. Unlike the companies who are in the thick of it, you have the ability to look objectively at the issues ecosystem, and make smart decisions about your priorities and your positioning. That kind of smart and objective strategic thinking is what will allow you to position yourself and your company as leaders in the space, rather than followers. SIGWATCH