This edition of Compete Magazine is dedicated to sustainability. The food system remains one of the primary drivers of climate change and environmental degradation. According to the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), approximately one-third of global greenhouse gas emissions can be attributed to the food system.
We play an important role in developing solutions to these challenges and we know that, as a company, we must integrate sustainability into the way we think and act. In 2021, AWG formed a cross-functional team to tackle incorporating sustainability into our everyday operations. Our goal is to make environmental improvements that positively impact our member retailers, promote a sustainable future and lead to social and economic improvements in the communities where we do business. Our teams are working to reduce our contributions to climate change through operational excellence practices, such as implementing sustainable procurement methods, reducing consumption of energy, reducing waste, increasing recycling and investments in clean energy.
No one company can address these issues alone. We know that continuous environment improvement stretches beyond just our walls, so fostering partnerships that enhance a cleaner operation are vitally important. Additionally, efforts to be a good environmental neighbor does not need to come at the expense of being a financially successful business. Positive outcomes can be met while delivering sustainable financial return.
Do consumers really care? Incorporating sustainability practices into stores is important to connect with the future consumer. The Gen Z consumer is more passionate about the environment than any other generation. A recent study published by CCRRC North America found that 60% of consumers believe food retailers should help their employees and local community in addition to making a profit. Consumers say they will pay 4% more at a food retailer that supports their community and the environment, and they will drive 6.5-10.9. minutes farther to a store with a stronger impact. The most popular initiatives consumers say they would like retailers to embrace are:
- Providing on-site recycling bins
- Labeling products that are locally made/grown
- Offering points/prizes for waste saved through purchases and/or recycling
- Providing biodegradable bags for produce
- Selling products in a wider variety of sizes to help limit food waste
In this edition you will read about some of AWG, and some of our partners, sustainability initiatives and how they are making an impact.
