In their first year of collaboration, Giant Food and West Concord, Massachusetts-based Divert Inc. processed more than 30.8 million pounds of wasted food, mitigating nearly 1,400 metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions.
“We recognize our responsibility as a leader in the grocery space to make a positive impact on the environment and tackle waste reduction,” said Diane Hicks, SVP of operations at the Landover, Maryland-based grocer.
“We’re proud of the success of our collaboration with Divert thus far and look forward to continuing our work together and expanding our efforts toward a healthier planet.”
Divert, an impact technology company, launched the wasted food recycling program with Giant in June 2022. Whenever possible, Giant’s stores mark down, repurpose or donate unsold, edible food to local food banks. For the food that cannot be repurposed or donated, Divert recycles and recoups its value by processing it into renewable energy.
The collaboration has expanded to include all 165 stores under the Giant banner across Maryland, Virginia, Delaware and Washington, D.C. On average, 500 pounds of wasted food per store is processed each day. The program, coupled with Divert’s diversion technology, has helped position Giant as a leader in decarbonization, wasted food prevention and food recovery.
“Wasted food is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions and can cost the average grocery store about $40,000 in lost profit daily,” said Ryan Begin, CEO and co-founder, Divert.
“Giant Food shares our commitment to tackling these issues through wasted food prevention and food donations that benefit our environment, communities, and ultimately, retailers’ bottom lines. Through our ongoing collaboration with Ahold Delhaize USA and Giant Food, true sustainability leaders in the retail industry, we are eager to accelerate our impact together in the coming years.”
Giant and Divert intend to expand the partnership in the coming year to further increase diversion and donation efforts for Giant’s divisions.
Data Highlights Increase Of Wasted Food During Summer Months
