Local and seasonal sourcing
We are dedicated to providing the very best fresh produce, at great value. Following research indicating that 74% of our customers wanted opportunities to buy more regional produce in store, in 2008 we introduced the new ‘From My Farm’ range.
The products available change with the seasons. All produce is grown and packed within the East of England and the range is labelled with the name and location of every grower. Packaging is minimised, by using small tags, or is recyclable and compostable. A penny from each pack purchased is donated to the Growing Trust, with the money raised going towards selected good causes within the East of England.
100% British
In 2007, we were the first of the top four supermarket chains to commit to selling 100% British fresh meat throughout the year. In 2008, we extended our commitment to British farmers by ensuring all our own-brand fresh milk is sourced regionally. We already sell Scottish and Welsh own-label standard fresh milk. We also began to establish producer groups for dairy, beef and poultry farmers, to develop closer links with those farmers. Through the producer groups, we aim to share and increase knowledge and understanding across our supply chain, driving quality and efficiency, and helping secure the long term viability of British farming.
Reducing waste
We work hard to prevent waste. This year, we have reduced the volume of our waste to landfill by a further 2,886 tonnes, achieving a cumulative reduction of 17% since 2006. In 2008, we trialled a new waste segregation project at two stores, which, if successfully rolled out to all stores, could result in further significant reductions in waste sent to landfill. We are also investigating the best means of generating renewable energy from our waste.
Carrier bags
In May 2008, and again in December, we urged our customers to help reduce carrier bag use by giving a free reusable carrier bag to every shopper. On each occasion we gave away 10 million reusable bags (one for each of our customers), made from 100% recycled material and larger than standard bags. We encouraged our customers to use the reusable bags on every shop. We have achieved a 32% reduction since 2006 (4,502 tonnes), the equivalent of 505 million bag units.
Cutting our Carbon Footprint
We have cut our Carbon Footprint by 36% since 2005, being ahead of our 2010 target. Our reduction strategy is based on:
- energy efficient and low emission technologies;
- carbon and energy monitoring, management and control;
- sourcing and generating renewable energy;
- transport efficiency;
- colleague awareness and ‘good housekeeping’ policies; and
- numerous energy and carbon saving projects.
In June 2008, we were among the first of only 12 companies to receive the prestigious new Carbon Trust Standard, for reducing carbon emissions. The accreditation scheme is the world’s first carbon award requiring an organisation to measure, manage and reduce its Carbon Footprint and make real reductions year-on-year.
