Musgrave, the owner of the SuperValu and Centra chains in Ireland, has launched the Musgrave Supplier Sustainability Initiative (MSSI) to drive collective action on issues like carbon reduction and food waste with its suppliers.
MSSI is part of the company’s Growing Sustainably Every Day sustainability strategy, which focuses on three pillars – Caring for the Planet, Sourcing for Good, and Creating Vibrant Communities. The initiative is expected to equip suppliers with the knowledge and skills to:
- Set emissions reduction targets aligned with Science-Based Targets, the overall aim of which is to limit global warming to 1.5C;
- Make enhancements to packaging to ensure it is reusable, recyclable or compostable by 2030;
- Sign up to the Environmental Protection Agency Food Waste Charter and commit to reducing food waste by 50% by 2030.
- Facilitate continuous knowledge-sharing to bring about more meaningful change at pace.
The participants in the programme are all long-standing Irish food and drink suppliers. Marcus Shortall, the group’s Sustainability Project Manager, commented: “At Musgrave, we have always been committed to locally sourced produce and long supported Irish food and drink producers. Our retailer SuperValu is the largest supporter of Irish produce in Ireland. The Musgrave Supplier Sustainability Initiative is a partnership which demonstrates our steadfast support for Irish suppliers and enables us to deliver the most sustainable choice of products for our customers. We recognise how challenging it can be for stakeholders across our supply chain to set and progress cohesive and impactful sustainability targets. We realise that we cannot achieve our goals alone and can leverage expertise and support to ensure we, along with our valued suppliers, are on the same path of progress, working to the same end goal.
“Musgrave is seeking to have our emissions reduction targets validated by SBTi in 2025. This will demonstrate a clear roadmap for reducing emissions, ensuring that its climate actions are scientifically robust and aligned with international best practices. Through collaboration with our suppliers, we are committed to assessing our value chain to pinpoint key areas for improvement, partnering with our suppliers to establish ambitious carbon reduction targets to manage greenhouse gas emissions.”
NAM Implications:
- A timely and valuable initiative by Musgrave.
- The packaging enhancements and reduction in food waste will probably resonate more with consumers, suppliers and media.
- Watch this space…
