SPAR Hungary has announced new environmental impact reduction measures, including initiatives targeting environmental protection, healthy lifestyles, employee support, and social responsibility. Over the past year, the company has significantly reduced its plastic usage, with new initiatives adding greater gains in this area.

Plastic use reduction

New materials introduced in the logistics department last year led to a reduction in wrapping foil usage of 84 tonnes of foil. Other drivers of plastic use reduction include an increase in biodegradable and compostable products, as well as products made using recyclable plastic in the logistics department. Another initiative led to 13.5 fewer tonnes of plastic being used in the packaging of Regnum meat tray products in 2021.

A further initiative is the discontinuation of 100% plastic wrapping and bags in the bakery sections of SPAR Hungary stores since May 2022. Instead, customers now see primarily paper-based wrapping and bags available in the bakery section.

The retailer is currently also testing new biodegradable and compostable bags in the fruit and vegetable sections of its stores. Customers are encouraged to bring their own bags for packing loose bakery products, fruits or vegetables to avoid using wrapping or other bags.

Support for animal shelters

SPAR Hungary not only focuses on reducing the impact on the environment in their daily campaigns. The SPAR country organisation is also involved in community help programmes and most recently supported a drive to collect food for animal shelters. Representatives from thirty animal protection organisations were present in selected INTERSPAR Hypermarkets to take receipt of much-needed donations from shoppers. Over 10,000kg of dry food and 3,500 canned food for dogs were collected during the two-day campaign. More than 1700kg of dry food, 2700 cans, 4400 pouches, and 1400kg of litter for cats were also donated.

This is not the only initiative through which the retailer supports animal institutions. SPAR Hungary supports local animal shelters, zoos, and wildlife parks with the donation of surplus and not-for-sale animal products.

Source: SPAR Hungary

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About SPAR Hungary

The first SPAR Supermarket opened in Hungary in 1992, following the acquisition of a majority stake in General Kereskedelmi Rt by ASPIAG (Austria SPAR International AG). Since its launch, SPAR Hungary has been actively involved in developing the country’s retail industry.

The licensing of independent retailers to operate the SPAR Brand in Hungary has proven successful. The retailers benefit from access to SPAR Own Brand products and expertise, while consumers enjoy the increased number of store locations. SPAR Hungary is one of the country’s largest employers, with nearly 18,000 team members.

SPAR Hungary runs a network of over 610 company-owned and independently-run stores. The country organisation’s online platform is available in Budapest and over 50 surrounding municipalities.