Rexel

How Rexel Netherlands electrified their sustainability journey through purpose and collective action

Leading an electric future with purpose: The Rexel Story

Challenge

Rexel Netherlands, a leading electrical supplies distributor, needed to define their corporate purpose and translate it into meaningful sustainability action. While they knew they wanted to contribute more to society, they lacked a clear direction and structured approach to embed sustainability into their business operations.

Client Context

Rexel Netherlands is part of the global Rexel Group, specializing in electrical supplies distribution and serving both professional and retail markets across the country.

The journey

We started with the fundamentals: understanding where Rexel stood and where they could make the most impact. What emerged was more than a strategy – it was a roadmap for transformation that touched every part of their business:

Deep-rooted assessment of their current impact
Development of a decade-long sustainability vision
Formation of a 16-person ambassador team representing every department
Creation of practical, measurable targets
Integration of sustainability into daily operations

The Impact

Together we created tangible sustainable shifts in how Rexel operates:

Transformed sustainability from a side project to a core business driver. with clear roadmap and accountability structure
Secured leadership commitment, with each management team member taking ownership of their specific sustainability goals
Built a network of 16 sustainability champions who drive change from within, that received monthly trainings on all topics related to sustainability
Launched successful recognition program driving monthly sustainable initiatives across the organization
Within the first year, achieved significant milestones, among which:

Transitioned to 100% electric company vehicle fleet
Implemented smart logistics program reducing transport emissions
Established sub-600km public transport policy, substantially reducing air travel emissions
Complete product line eco-certification (PEP passport)
Enhanced CSR transparency via refreshed website page
Embedding sustainability in annual management and sales events

In their words

The process was inspiring, motivating and energetic. Before we started, I was somewhat unfamiliar with the subject and did not really know what our contribution could be. I now have a much better picture of this. I feel very motivated to continually improve where we can, to embed purpose in all of our processes!

Merijn Ingelse, Marketing Director

Initially, I was skeptical about how this purpose journey would fit into our annual strategic planning, and I’ll admit – I was both unaware and somewhat apprehensive about sustainability, fearing it might be too idealistic. What we got instead was a learning journey with real results. The process helped Rexel build a concrete foundation for strategic ESG implementation, significantly improving our decision-making capabilities in sustainability. What stood out was how practical knowledge was translated into actionable business strategies – pushing us forward while keeping the entire organization engaged and aligned. It was exactly what we needed: ambitious yet grounded in our business reality. 5/5 would recommend!

Thomas Koemans, Manager Administration Organization and Internal Control