Five stores across Australia are set to begin a trial for rustic cardboard boxes for shoppers to use at Coles, one of the largest supermarket chains in Australia. Coles is piloting a new method meant to reduce plastic waste. Customers can now use a carton for their fresh produce without additional charges.
The trial will last eight weeks and will take place in Melbourne,Queensland,Perth, and New South Wales. The useable boxes were previously used to deliver fresh produce, therefore, they are receiving a second life for use in the supermarket.
Matt Swindells, who oversees sustainability at Coles, said it focuses on reducing the use of plastic. He further stated, “Our customers want more eco-friendly choices.” The boxes multi-functional as they can be used inside trolley bags and easily disposed of by recycling at home.
A survey conducted by Coles indicates that there is strong support behind this initiative. The majority of people expressed interest in having their fresh produce packed in recyclable boxes; many of them admired the idea of cardboard boxes.
The initiative was praised by Rebecca Gilling from Planet Ark as it encourages the purchase of unpacked fresh produce. Additionally, it promotes a circular economy as the boxes are being reused.
The trial is part of a broader scheme Coles previously launched. Coles ceased to sell soft plastic bags which resulted in 230 million bags being eliminated in just one year.
These boxes can easily be found in the produce section as well as the checkout section in the selected stores. The boxes are effortless to use and won’t cost customers a dime.
This trial could potentially change everything for Coles. If successful, it could lower the use of plastic bags immensely. This is one step closer to a more sustainable shopping experience.
They are always on the lookout to improve their business. They are listening to customer feedback and have recently launched a more environmentally friendly trial involving cardboard boxes.
Shoppers who frequently forget their reusable bags have a greener alternative now. These boxes solve the problem with no added cost to the consumer while also helping the environment. It’s a win-win situation.
Coles will be paying keen attention to how consumers react as the trial progresses. If it is executed well, there is a possibility that more stores will adopt the idea.
Big retailers have the means to create a difference and Coles is proof of that. This shift can largely reduce plastic waste, which is a massive issue. They are making positive changes and leading towards a brighter future.
