Subject. The article addresses circular processes in the retail sector. Objectives. The purpose is to evaluate the dynamics of ESG indicators of Russian retailers and analyze their initiatives in the field of circular economy based on public reports. The results obtained will enable to understand how deeply the principles of circular economy are integrated into the business models of leading trading companies. Methods. The study draws on general scientific research methods. Results. First, I analyzed the methodology of assigning ESG rankings to companies by RAEX Russian rating agency, compared ESG ranking indicator systems and indicators that are traditionally used to assess the circular economy’ development level. Then, I reviewed the dynamics of ESG rankings of Russian companies in the retail sector. The third stage was focused on the analysis of reports of Russian companies in the retail sector included in the rating, to supplement the information and more accurately determine the level of development of the circular economy in the retail sector. Conclusions. The work of companies in the retail sector in the environmental field is constantly improving, as evidenced by the positive dynamics of the average normalized ranking. However, the focal point is on waste management practices and resource conservation. Initiatives, like extending the service life of goods and using reusable containers, are much less common and have not yet become widespread. Despite some improvement in the ESG rankings, there have been no significant changes in the business models of Russian retail chains so far.
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