SPAR Hungary introduce sustainable fruit and vegetable containers

SPAR Hungary is taking a significant step towards environmental sustainability with the introduction of innovative, reusable transport containers for its fruit and vegetable departments in 2024. These foldable, reusable, and easy-to-clean containers will be rolled out across all SPAR stores throughout the year.

The introduction of these environmentally conscious containers not only enhances the aesthetics of the fresh produce sections but also aligns with SPAR's commitment to high food safety standards. By transitioning to these fully recyclable containers, SPAR aims to minimise the use of cardboard, plastic, and wood from one-way containers.

Moreover, the robust and collapsible design of these containers promises substantial cost savings during transport, further contributing to SPAR's efficiency goals. Easy to clean and durable, they also reduce the risk of damage to groceries during handling and transport, particularly crucial for delicate fruit and vegetables.

Having undergone successful testing since September 2023, SPAR Hungary is poised to implement the new container system across all company-owned stores by the end of the year. This initiative underscores SPAR's dedication to environmental stewardship and innovation in retail.

Márk Maczelka, head of communications at SPAR Hungary, said: Achieving environmental sustainability is a strategic issue for SPAR Hungary. It is an important aim to reduce waste production, help prevent waste generation and increase recycling rates. In 2023 a number of measures were taken that align with these goals. Examples include using less plastic in the packaging of certain products and saving a significant amount of plastic film by covering some shipments with rolling rack plastic blankets. Additionally, new digital solutions have greatly reduced paper-based administration. One of the important steps in this area will be the uniform introduction of the so-called ‘IFCO’ storage containers in the SPAR network this year. This will not only strengthen food safety, but also enables the company to operate in an environmentally-conscious manner.