Amongst the growing importance of sustainability in the corporate landscape, Acer emerges with circular economy practices and ambitious carbon neutrality goals. In this exclusive interview, Emmanuel Fromont, President of Acer EMEA, provides insights into Acer’s initiatives and long-term mission, highlighting the company’s commitment to sustainable innovation and setting new benchmarks for the future.
How is Acer incorporating the concept of a circular economy into its operations? What are the specific measures or programmes aimed at promoting the reuse and refurbishment of electronic products?
Acer has taken steps to embrace a circular economy through initiatives such as our “Device as a Service” (DaaS) programme. We currently have approximately 10,000 units under DaaS. The programme involves renting or financing units more than selling them, providing us with the option to reclaim or repurchase the units at a specified value. Notably, Acer stands out with its in-house service centre, allowing us to retrieve, repair, and eventually resell these units.
We are also exploring partnerships with brokers, considering tenders, and evaluating options with retailers to sell refurbished units. Additionally, Acer encourages customers to return their units through training programmes and offers buyback options, even for competitors’ products. We are well-equipped to repair and reuse returned units.
Acer also has set ambitious carbon neutrality goals. How is Acer educating and raising awareness among its customers about the importance of sustainability?
Sustainability is a core value at Acer, and we strive to be trendsetters in this regard. Our Vero product line exemplifies our commitment to sustainability by incorporating a high percentage of PCR plastic, eliminating paint and surface treatments, and using 100 per cent recyclable packaging. We have actively communicated these initiatives to both consumer and commercial audiences. Notably, our Vero lineup includes the first consumer unit, the Vero 16, which is carbon neutral. Acer is dedicated to educating the market and providing consumers with environmentally friendly choices.
Beyond product-related initiatives, how is Acer integrating sustainability into its day-to-day operations in the EMEA region?
Acer initiated sustainability efforts over a decade ago, setting ambitious goals to reduce carbon emissions and transition to renewable electricity. Our commitment is evident in achieving 70 per cent renewable electricity in the EMEA region, and well on our way to the 100 per cent goal by 2035. Our offices prioritise sustainability by eliminating plastic and implementing recycling programmes.
We have also extended our efforts to the supply chain, working with suppliers to reduce carbon footprints. In logistics, we collaborate with providers and carriers to use biofuel. Acer is committed to being a responsible corporate citizen and leverages sustainability as a business opportunity.
How do you see market trends and consumer preferences influencing Acer’s sustainability initiatives and product development strategies?
Market trends and consumer preferences play a crucial role in shaping Acer’s sustainability initiatives. As awareness of sustainability and climate challenges grows, especially among the new generation, we listen to these demands. The Vero product line, our first response to these demands, has evolved to include higher percentages of PCR. Acer aims to extend this commitment to all products, with a target of 15 to 30 per cent PCR in every product by 2025. While consumers express a willingness to buy green products, the challenge lies in minimising the cost difference between sustainable and regular products to make sustainable choices more accessible.
Looking ahead, what is Acer’s long-term mission for sustainability in the technology industry?
Acer envisions expanding its carbon-neutral product line. While the industry has committed to carbon neutrality by 2050, Acer aims to achieve this goal sooner and encourages the entire supply chain to collaborate towards this shared objective. Acer attended COP28 to showcase its concrete steps and commitment to sustainability, welcoming the opportunity to be tested and verified in an environment where many claim to be green. The long-term mission is to accelerate progress towards carbon neutrality and continue leading in sustainable practices within the technology industry.
