The usage of internal communication to engage and motivate employees towards a company’s sustainability goal - A case study of Perrigo Nordic’s internal communication regarding their ‘No-plastic transport packaging’ goal

Abstract: Background: Due to the increased awareness by society concerning sustainability and the Sustainable Development Goals set for 2030, companies are faced with higher demands on their sustainability commitments. In order for a company to implement and reach its sustainability goals, the management needs to provide employees with information and create a common understanding. This makes internal communication a necessity. Internal communication also motivates and engages the staff to commit and work towards the goals set by the management. Purpose: The purpose of the upcoming essay is to raise the awareness of how to motivate and engage employees with the help of internal communication to corporate sustainability goals. This purpose is hoped to be fulfilled through a case study of the company Perrigo Nordic, and the research question is thereby: How can internal communication engage and motivate employees to work towards Perrigo Nordic’s ‘No-plastic transport packaging’ goal? Method: The study’s theoretical starting point is based on earlier studies and theories, in terms of scientific articles and literature which creates the foundation for the study’s empirical data collection. The study’s empirical data was collected through a case study with Perrigo Nordic. The case study was conducted in a qualitative manner with semi-structured interviews with people working at different positions at the company. Additionally, a supplementary quantitative question poll was sent out to all 120 employees working at Perrigo Nordic. The study was made primarily made in a deductive way. Results and conclusion: There are several combined factors within internal communication which contribute to an increased engagement and motivation. Concluding, and to answer the research question, Perrigo Nordic should customise their internal communication to enhance knowledge and a sense of belonging in order to increase the engagement and motivation towards a clearly defined sustainability goal.