ECU Sustainability Awards – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Welcome to the FAQ section of the ECU Sustainability Awards! Below, you’ll find key information to help guide your participation. For full details, please refer to the official Guidelines & Rules:
Download here

1️ General Information

What are the ECU Sustainability Awards?
The ECU Sustainability Awards recognize outstanding sustainability efforts by Retailers, FMCG companies, and Solution Providers in Central and Eastern Europe (CEE). The awards highlight visionary leadership, impactful commercial projects, and operational improvements that drive real business value.

Who organizes the awards?
The awards are organized by European Conferences United (ECU) in partnership with Henkel, LPR / Euro Pool System, and the European Circular Retail Foundation.

Why should my company participate?

• Industry Recognition – Position your company as a sustainability leader.
• Business Growth – Sustainability is a competitive advantage that drives profitability.
• Exclusive Networking – Connect with top business leaders at the awards gala.
• Visibility & Promotion – Finalists and winners receive international exposure.

2️ Participation & Eligibility

Who can apply?
The awards are open to companies operating in CEE in three main categories:
🏆 Retailers – Leading the shift toward responsible shopping experiences.
🏆 FMCG Manufacturers – Creating sustainable products for a better future.
🏆 Solution Providers – Delivering innovations that help businesses achieve sustainability goals.

Does my project have to be completed to apply?
No. Your project must have achieved measurable progress within the last two years, but it can be part of a longer-term sustainability strategy.
Can multiple departments from the same company apply?
Yes! One submission is allowed per company in the Sustainable Leadership & Excellence category, but companies may submit multiple distinct projects in the Commercial and Operational categories.

3️ Application Process

How do I apply?
1. Download the Key Materials; here
2. Prepare Your Submission – Ensure it aligns with the relevant award category.
3. Submit Online – Complete your application by March 21, 2025.

What format should my submission be in?
While there’s no strict format, we provide an Application Template to help structure your submission. You may also submit:
✔ Written reports (PDF, DOCX)
✔ Presentation slides (PPTX, PDF)
✔ Video submissions (with a written summary)

Can I submit additional supporting materials?
Yes! You can include videos, images, reports, and other evidence to support your application. Make sure all materials are clearly referenced in your main submission.

4️ Judging & Awards Ceremony

How are submissions evaluated?
A jury of industry experts evaluates each submission based on:
• Scalability & Industry Influence (40%) – How widely can your initiative be applied?
• Impact & Measurability (30%) – What tangible sustainability benefits have been achieved?
• Innovation & Uniqueness (15%) – Is your project groundbreaking?
• Stakeholder Engagement (15%) – How well does it engage consumers, employees, and partners?

When will the finalists be announced?
Finalists will be notified by April 9, 2025, and invited to attend the awards ceremony.

Do I need to attend the awards ceremony?
While not mandatory, if your company is nominated, we strongly encourage a representative to attend the ceremony on April 15, 2025, as part of
the Poland & CEE Retail Summit 2025 / European Circular Retail Congress.

5️Visibility & Promotion

What kind of visibility do winners receive?
Winning an ECU Sustainability Award brings significant business exposure, including:
📢 Recognition at the awards ceremony in front of top industry leaders
📢 Coverage in ECU Sustainability Awards publications and industry reports
📢 Promotion via LinkedIn, direct industry communications, and media outreach

Will all participants receive visibility?
Yes! The ECU Sustainability Awards celebrate every company taking part—not just the winners. If you apply, you have the opportunity to:
✔ Be featured at the event – Your participation will be recognized at the ceremony
✔ Showcase your achievements on an industry portal dedicated to sustainability success stories
✔ Gain PR and networking benefits – Your company will be part of a high-impact sustainability movement

Can I use the award for my own marketing?
Absolutely! All winners and participants receive official branding assets to highlight their sustainability achievements across:
🌍 Social media (LinkedIn, company channels)
📰 Press releases & external media
📊 Company reports & sustainability communications
🚀 Every step toward sustainability deserves recognition—whether you win or not, your impact matters.

6️ Additional Questions?

For any further inquiries, please refer to the full Guidelines & Rules or contact us directly at sustainability-awards@conferences-united.pl.
Join the movement. Showcase your impact. Apply today!