Scaling sustainability

Sustainability isn’t slowing down. It’s speeding up.

In a year marked by political pushback and regulatory rollbacks, many expected businesses to retreat from sustainability. But our International Business Report (IBR) data tells a different story.

Sustainability is embedded at the core of mid-market businesses — they see it as a path to growth, not a compliance burden.

Our latest report explores how the mid-market is driving a more sustainable planet through continued investment and a clear strategic drive to make a change.

Get the facts behind the findings

85.9%

will maintain or increase

their sustainability investment in 2025

41.6%

say market competition

is the biggest factor driving their investment in sustainability

72.9%

will continue to report

on their sustainability efforts despite regulatory rollbacks

At a time when many politicians and regulators are grappling with driving economic growth and reaching sustainability targets, the mid-market is reframing the narrative on sustainability at a pivotal moment.

Trent Gazzaway Global leader, Service line capability and quality, Grant Thornton International

Building for the future

Sustainability is no longer simply a box-ticking exercise for mid-market firms — it’s a business imperative.

Our data shows that businesses are using sustainability to drive efficiency, open markets internationally and build real business resilience. By investing responsibly — and with a purpose — the mid-market is demonstrating how to create a sustainable global economy that’s not only good for business now, but fit for the future.

Read on to discover the path the mid-market is taking to reframe the sustainability story.

Sustainability: The path to growth

In a year defined by economic uncertainty and political pushback, mid-market firms are defying expectations. Our report explores how sustainability has become a strategic lever for growth, helping businesses outperform competitors and build long-term value.

Keeping a cool head in a heated world

With shifting regulations and rising scepticism, many expected sustainability reporting to stall. Instead, mid-market firms are doubling down. We reveal how reporting is evolving into a tool for resilience, purpose and performance.

A regulatory reset creates opportunities

Regulatory reform isn’t slowing the mid-market — it’s unlocking new possibilities. Our IBR data shows how businesses are using relaxed regulatory mandates to align sustainability with strategy, expand globally and take ownership of their journey.

Where next for mid-market sustainability?

Sustainability isn’t without its challenges. But mid-market firms are reframing barriers as strategic questions — and finding answers. We explore how businesses are navigating cost, complexity and uncertainty to build lasting advantage.

Ready to scale sustainability?

Mid-market leaders are turning sustainability into strategy. This report reveals how and why it’s becoming a lever for growth, resilience and reputation.

Download the full report now to see how mid-market firms are building momentum and shaping the future of sustainable business.

Download the PDF now