In a substantial advancement for sustainability, Iceland has redistributed 2.5 million meals in 2024.
- This achievement is part of a collaboration with the food-sharing app Olio, aimed at reducing food waste.
- The initiative, ongoing since 2022, involves nearly 1,000 Iceland and The Food Warehouse stores across the UK.
- Iceland’s efforts translated into a significant CO2e saving, akin to removing millions of cars from the road.
- The initiative supports 55,900 families, reinforcing community aid amidst environmental action.
In a notable stride towards sustainability and community support, Iceland has successfully redistributed 2.5 million meals throughout 2024 in partnership with the food-sharing app Olio. Since commencing this collaboration in 2022, Iceland has not only reduced food waste significantly but has also managed to save 3,228 tonnes of food from ending up in landfills. This dynamic partnership is operational in nearly 1,000 Iceland and The Food Warehouse stores across the UK, ensuring that surplus food is collected by local ‘Food Waste Heroes’ and distributed to users within Olio’s expansive network of recipients.
This year alone, Iceland’s initiative has provided for 55,900 families, which is not merely a statistical achievement but a social milestone, with a CO2e saving of 4,758,729 kg. This saving is equivalent to the environmental benefit of removing 16,215,373 cars off the road, showcasing the substantial impact of the programme on both local communities and the broader ecological landscape.
Executive Chairman of Iceland Foods, Richard Walker, expressed immense pride in reaching this milestone, stating: “Redistributing 2.5 million meals this year is something we’re incredibly proud of. At Iceland, our ‘Doing it Right’ philosophy is at the heart of everything we do, and this milestone is a great example of that commitment in action.” His comments highlight the company’s dedication to not just curtailing food waste but also ensuring that surplus food is effectively redirected to those in dire need.
Looking ahead, Iceland has announced plans to extend its food redistribution efforts by expanding the ‘lucky dip bags’ trial with Olio to five additional stores in the North West by the end of October. This extension signifies Iceland’s ongoing commitment to exploring innovative methods in battling food waste and supporting community well-being.
Iceland’s sustainable initiatives with Olio exemplify a comprehensive approach to reducing waste and promoting community welfare—setting a benchmark for others to follow.
