SPAR Hungary will introduce a new type of environmentally conscious, reusable transport containers for its fruit and vegetable departments in 2024. The foldable, reusable, easy-to-clean, durable boxes will be introduced in all SPAR stores during this year.

Reducing waste

“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,” said Márk Maczelka, head of communications at SPAR Hungary.

Fully recyclabe containers

By utilising the new fully recyclable containers, the fresh and vegetable sections in stores will be more uniform and well-designed. These containers also meet high food safety standards, and will result in significantly less cardboard, plastic and wood from one-way containers being used. The new containers are robust and collapsible which means considerable cost savings during transport. The containers are easy to clean and reduce the risk of damage to the groceries during transport and handling, which is particularly important for fruit and vegetables.

SPAR Hungary has been testing the new containers since September 2023 and the experience has been very positive. By the end of the year, the system is expected to be introduced in all company-owned stores.

Source: SPAR Hungary

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About SPAR Hungary

The first SPAR Supermarket opened in Hungary in 1992, following the acquisition by ASPIAG (Austria SPAR International AG) of a majority stake in General Kereskedelmi Rt. SPAR Hungary is one of the country’s largest employers, with a network of company-owned and independently run stores operating nationwide.