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Tesco has a target to reduce packaging weight by 25% on own Label and branded products by 2010 from a base line of 2005 |
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Background
In April 2007, Tesco set a target to reduce packaging weight by 25% on own-label and branded products by 2010 from a base line of 2005.
Working with suppliers and the wider industry to reduce packaging it has become clear to Tesco that this is a complex issue, and that weight alone may not be the most beneficial and environmentally comprehensive measure.
How the issue was tackled
Tesco is collaborating with over 280 suppliers on over 4,000 packaging reduction initiatives for both own-label and branded products, sharing knowledge and supporting them to make the right changes.
Tesco’s work on packaging reduction includes over fifteen different supply chain initiatives focusing on supplier products and packaging, distribution processes, store operations and customer practices.
Benefits and impacts
These projects have resulted in absolute savings of over 80,000 tonnes of packaging weight, including a 19% packaging reduction in own-label dairy products and a 34% reduction in own-label produce packaging.
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Tesco chickens in the 68% lighter FORM-SHRINK pack |
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Tesco’s packaging reduction initiatives have delivered a more rounded approach to sustainability and the bottom line.
For example, Tesco re-launched their chickens in a new 68% lighter FORM-SHRINK pack, migrating away from a standard tray and film pack. In addition to significant packaging savings, this pack has also improved supply chain efficiency through increased crate fill. The new design achieved:
- 900,000 crates per annum
- 14,000 fewer pallets
- 540 less vehicle movements
Tesco’s concentrated squash, which was developed with product partner Princes, delivers environmental and consumer benefits via smaller, lighter, more portable pack sizes.
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Tesco squash |
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The traditional one-litre pack has been replaced by 750ml super concentrated, generating a bottle weight saving of 17% and a 33% reduction in vehicle movements. The primary pack is a 100% recycled PET bottle.
Advice to others
Whilst considerable progress has already been made towards this target, Tesco is also working with suppliers and experts to understand best practice in the area of environmental and sustainable packaging along the entire supply chain.
Tesco is also participating in a global project through the Consumer Goods Forum to develop common definitions and principles of metrics for packaging in the context of sustainable development.
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