Gap Top Retailer on CSR Rankings

Gap Inc. (San Francisco) was the top performer in the retail sector in the latest “America’s Most Responsible Companies” roster compiled yearly by Newsweek magazine and global research/data firm Statista.

Corporate responsibility encompasses environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG). At the core is the idea that businesses should support the communities in which they belong, the study’s backers say.

“The survey results suggest that companies have been making improvements in certain areas over the last three years, with social responsibility scores notably on the rise,” Michael Bausch, a Senior Analyst at Statista, tells Newsweek. “This positive trend indicates a commitment to enhancing corporate practices, particularly in response to societal expectations. The data reflects a gradual but encouraging evolution in companies’ efforts to fulfill their responsibilities, highlighting a positive shift in their overall approach.”

The top 10 finishers in the retail category, and their scores out of 100, are:

1. Gap (also operates Athleta, Banana Republic and Old Navy), San Francisco, 79.90
2. Qurate Retail Group, (Ballard Designs, Frontgate, Garnet Hill, HSN QVC), West Chester Pa., 79.79
3. Lowe’s Cos., Mooresville, N.C., 78.94
4. The Home Depot, Atlanta, 78.27
5. Best Buy, Richfield   Minn., 77.38
6. The Andersons, Maumee, Ohio, 77.36
7. PVH (Tommy Hilfiger/Calvin Klein), New York, 76.60
8. Target, Minneapolis, Minn., 76.19
9. National Vision, Duluth, Ga., 76.03
10. Petco, San Diego, 74.56

Click here for more from the survey.