Tesco introduces innovative packaging to reduce plastic use by 70% in meat products.
- The retailer’s shift aims to enhance sustainability and efficiency in distribution.
- The new packaging design prevents compression, maintaining product quality.
- Transportation efficiencies expected due to reduced pack size leading to cost savings.
- Tesco aims to meet customer demand for environmentally friendly shopping options.
Tesco, a leading retailer, is transitioning from its traditional tray wrap packs to new ‘pillow packs’ for 500g portions of lean steak mince. The change is part of Tesco’s broader initiative to reduce plastic usage by 70%. This new packaging innovation not only supports sustainability goals but also improves the transportation and display logistics by being more compact.
The ‘pillow packs’ slightly inflate to avoid compressing the contents, preserving the mince’s quality. Compared to vacuum-packed predecessors found in competitors such as Lidl, Co-op, and Sainsbury’s, this method retains product integrity while significantly lessening environmental impact due to reduced plastic content.
These packs also effectively increase supply chain efficiency. As the packs are smaller, fewer lorries are needed for transport, and supermarkets can stock more packs on their shelves, potentially improving product availability and reducing overall costs for the supply chain.
Recyclability is another key feature of the ‘pillow packs’, aligning with Tesco’s 4Rs packaging strategy: Remove, Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle. These packs can be processed through front-of-store recycling units dedicated to soft plastics, promoting environmental responsibility among customers.
Dom Morrey, Tesco’s commercial director for fresh produce, emphasised the dual benefit of this initiative, stating, “Pillow packs are a win-win: they keep the mince in perfect condition while requiring much less plastic.” He underscores Tesco’s ongoing efforts to reduce its environmental footprint by eliminating or reducing unnecessary plastic across its operations.
Tesco’s innovative packaging approach highlights a significant step towards sustainable retail practices, meeting both customer demands and ecological responsibility.
