Freedom Sustainability Commitments
2020
Soft Landing
Freedom works with not-for-profit company Soft Landing to provide sustainable mattress & bed ensemble recycling options for customers in Australia.
2021
APCO Member
Freedom is an Australian Packaging Covenant Organization member, working towards the 2025 National Packaging Targets.
2023
Freedom's Dandenong DC
Freedom launched a state-of-the-art DC facility in Dandenong South Victoria. The new DC is a 24,345sqm space with 100-kilowatt solar power system, water-efficient rainwater harvesting, double glazed windows which bring in natural light and foil-faced insulation throughout. We've also implemented efficient LED lighting and motion sensors, with the metering of utilities. To create a better working environment for our staff the facility also boasts vertical gardens in the reception and lunchroom areas, enhanced air quality systems, bike racks, lockers, and filtered water. The building is currently being assessed under the Green Star sustainability rating to validate the effectiveness of these initiatives.
2023
Sustainable Choice Group
Freedom becomes a foundational member of Sustainable Choice Group.
2023
Internal Initiatives
Freedom committed to reducing waste within our stores. Across our 10 New Zealand stores, we transitioned from printing large format signage 3-4 times a year, to producing standardized reusable signage with small promotional glass adhesives. This has reduced POS spend by 38% between October 2023- March 2024 while achieving single-use material savings.
2023
Children's Cancer Institute Partnership
Freedom has been a proud partner of Children’s Cancer Institute for over 25 years, contributing to CCI’s success across various channels and initiatives. Our support includes workplace giving, cause-related marketing, staff engagement, consistent participation and advocacy in CEO Dare to Cure, Diamond Ball sponsorship, and gift-in-kind support. Moreover, Freedom has supported CCI’s brand awareness through our extensive network of stores and with various initiatives including branded merchandise and mug month promotions. With contributions totaling $4 million – or the annual cost of 27 researchers - we are excited to further strengthen our partnership as CCI transition to their new home at the Minderoo Children’s Comprehensive Cancer Centre.
2023
Internal Initiatives
In April 2023, we launched a trial in our Balgowlah store to introduce a cardboard shredder. This machine downcycles surplus shipper packaging to produce honeycomb paper that is then used for wrapping and as a filler for online packaging deliveries. This is now being rolled out across all New Zealand 11 company stores.
2023
Internal Initiatives
First package free candle wall installation in New Zealand. Our Ecoya refill program provides packaging free and refills in one convenient location in store. Our aim is to use this space to help educate our staff and our customers on the benefits of durability, longevity and reusing the resources we use wherever possible.
2024
Internal Initiatives
Freedom launched sustainable packaging guidelines for homewares. These guidelines outline key principles and materials considerations so we can work with our suppliers to develop smarter, more sustainable packaging.
2024
Product Design Audit
Freedom is developing a sustainable and circular design checklist to audit products. This will help identify how we can continue to improve the longevity of our products and increase the use of certified, renewable, recycled and recyclable materials across our designs.
2024
Internal Initiatives
In August 2024, Freedom donated 80 pieces of returned furniture to Reloved, who deliver reclaimed products directly to people who need a helping hand.
2024
Freedom To Green Internal Committee
Freedom to green sustainability education for all freedom employees and customers. This year’s focus will be onboarding to our team to the Homewares Sustainable Packaging Guidelines.
2024
Internal Initiatives
All Freedom stores, warehouse DCs, and support centers will recycle packaging and solid waste on-site.
2026
Freedom Store Lighting
We are working to transition all Freedom stores to have LED lighting to improve energy efficiencies.
Evidence