Giant Eagle announces waste-free supply chain status
A regional grocer has announced a key sustainability accomplishment.
Giant Eagle Inc. has reached zero waste status across its nine warehouse and manufacturing sites after effectively implementing environmentally-friendly, waste-reducing practices across more than 2.7 million sq. ft. of its supply chain network.
The warehouse and manufacturing site milestone is a notable step toward Giant Eagle’s goal to achieve zero waste companywide by 2030. As it tracks its progress, the company is using the Environmental Protection Agency benchmark of diverting at least 90 percent of waste from landfills.
Giant Eagle is touting three key programs that have contributed to its zero waste achievement across its warehouse and manufacturing sites, including:
- Participation in the company’s expansive food rescue efforts Giant Eagle’s warehouse and manufacturing sites are key contributors to the company’s overall food rescue efforts, delivering 1.8 million pounds of the 6.4 million pounds the company annually donates to regional food banks and other partners to feed those in need.
- Utilization of efficient reuse and recycling processes Warehouse and manufacturing site team members follow numerous recycling practices that include plastic, cardboard and pallet reuse and other innovative recycling methods.
- Commitment from dedicated team members The commitment by Giant Eagle’s more than 2,000 warehouse and manufacturing site team members to the multiple training sessions and daily practices aimed at continuous waste removal was a key driver of this milestone, according to the grocer.
“As we work toward achieving zero waste across all supermarket properties by 2030, we’re advancing several initiatives to enhance our food donation programs, improve reuse and recycling efforts, and strengthen Team Member training,” said Cara Mercil, director of sustainability and corporate social responsibility at Giant Eagle. “We take pride in being active members of the communities we serve and are committed to continuing our efforts to give back.”
[READ MORE: Giant Eagle links retail media network to in-store TVs]
Founded in 1931, Giant Eagle operates more than 470 stores throughout western Pennsylvania, north central Ohio, northern West Virginia, Maryland and Indiana.
