SPAR apprentices save 11,247 foods – a real sustainability success!

SPAR apprentices save 11,247 foods – a real sustainability success!

SPAR Austria remains actively committed to combating food waste. There has been a cooperation with *Too Good To Go* since 2021, which has now been refreshed with a current initiative by second-year apprentices. Over the past two weeks, these apprentices have put together surprise bags to keep excess food from spoiling and at the same time raise awareness of sustainability. A total of 11,247 bags were sold in Austria during the campaign period, which reflects the positive response to the campaign.

SPAR has been implementing various measures to minimize food waste for several years. This includes intelligent product planning as well as projects such as the fruit and vegetable box. During this time, apprentices have the opportunity to learn these strategies not only theoretically but also practically. Training programs such as the “Green Champion” training, which focus on sustainability, are used. Click Carinthia reports on these important steps in handling food.

SPAR’s sustainability initiatives

In addition to the activities mentioned, *SPAR Österreichische Warenhandels-AG* provides information and materials for media representatives. These are accessible on the SPAR website and can be used for journalistic purposes. The measure demonstrates SPAR's commitment, not only to its own sustainability practices, but also to its communication about them. The information is protected by copyright and is subject to certain terms of use. Press SPAR supports this initiative with relevant content.

In the broader context, the European Union is exploring measures to reduce food waste. In July 2023, the EU Commission presented a proposal to revise the Waste Framework Directive, which aims to significantly reduce food and textile waste. The Commission's proposals include binding waste reduction targets that include a 30% reduction in food waste in retail, catering and households by the end of 2030. This shows that serious efforts are also being made at European level to reduce food waste. The European Parliament has developed extensive measures for this purpose and calls, among other things, for the promotion of “ugly” fruit and vegetables and for the clarification of date markings.

SPAR's activities and developments at European level show that the fight against food waste is being addressed both locally and internationally. With targeted measures and initiatives, SPAR is setting an example for more sustainability in the food industry and helping to create greater awareness of the conscious handling of food.