The ESG Advantage

For many small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs), Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) efforts can feel like something reserved for large corporates with global supply chains and big budgets. But that’s changing…

Today, SMEs are embracing ESG, not just because it’s the “right thing to do”, but because it’s proving to be a smart, long-term business move. From cutting costs to attracting talent and winning clients, strong ESG practices are becoming a real competitive advantage.

At MRK Associates, we’ve seen this shift first-hand, not just in the businesses we work with, but in our own journey. That’s why we now publish a bi-annual ESG report to keep ourselves accountable, share progress, and show clients and candidates exactly what we stand for.

Here’s why ESG should be on your agenda too.

ESG drives cost savings (and it doesn’t have to be complicated)

You don’t need to overhaul your entire operation overnight. Many of the most effective ESG steps are also the simplest:

• Cutting energy use: Switching to LED lighting, using smart thermostats, and managing water use can have a real impact on your utility bills.
• Reducing waste: Whether it's recycling office materials or rethinking how you dispose of packaging, a circular mindset often leads to lower costs.
• Streamlining operations: A focus on sustainability encourages regular reviews of how resources are used – which often exposes inefficiencies and saves money.

These aren’t future-focused ideas, they’re small wins that build momentum.

Sustainability builds brand credibility

Being able to say “we take ESG seriously” is one thing. Showing it is another.

• Today’s customers are paying attention. Particularly younger generations are actively choosing brands that align with their values.
• Your reputation grows with transparency. Sharing updates on what you’re doing and why builds trust – both inside and outside your business.
• It sets you apart. In a crowded market, ESG can be more than a tick-box! It can be part of your pitch, your positioning, and your brand story.

We’ve had candidates actively ask about our ESG stance before joining our team and businesses are starting to see the same from prospective employees and clients.

Attracting talent and investment with purpose

The job market is changing. So is investor interest.

• Employees want more than a payslip. A clearly communicated ESG commitment shows that your business takes responsibility seriously and that can be a key differentiator in a competitive talent market.
• Investors are asking questions. More and more, funders and lenders are screening for ESG credentials. Being able to show intent, progress, and reporting gives you an edge.
• Stronger supply chains. When your suppliers and partners share your values, relationships are easier, and your overall resilience improves.

Whether you’re a five-person firm or scaling quickly, this is about showing stakeholders you’re thinking long-term.

Getting started (without getting overwhelmed)

You don’t need to build a formal strategy straight away, but you do need to get intentional.

Here’s where we suggest starting:

• Do a quick ESG review: Where are you now in terms of environmental impact, employee wellbeing, and governance? Even a one-page audit helps.
• Set 1–2 goals: Make them realistic and link them to your business model (e.g. reducing printing, improving DE&I, updating policies).
• Create a simple action plan: Who’s responsible? What’s the timeframe? Keep it achievable.
• Share your journey: Add a page to your website, talk about your efforts on LinkedIn, and let customers know what you’re working towards.

That’s how we began our own ESG process at MRK and it’s been a valuable way to both hold ourselves accountable and connect with likeminded businesses.

The bottom line

ESG isn’t a trend. It’s becoming a key marker of resilience, quality, and trustworthiness, even for smaller businesses!

You don’t have to be perfect. Start small, be transparent, and build from there. ESG won’t just support the planet and your people, it’ll also strengthen your business for whatever comes next.