250 more Supervalu stories take aim at zero waste

April 18 -- The Supervalu store chain is stepping up its sustainability efforts.

The Eden Prairie, Minn.-based company said 250 stores will be added to its zero waste program by the end of the fiscal year on Feb. 23.

In the last year, 54 stores achieved 90% waste diversion, according to a news release.

The company operates under several brands, including Acme, Albertsons, Cub Foods, Shaw’s/Star Market and Jewel-Osco.

Most of the diversion efforts took place in Albertson’s stores, but the program is being expanded to Jewel-Osco and Shaws.

The company increased mixed paper recycling by 98% and saw a 293% increase in the number of stores composting.

"Last year marked incredible progress in our zero-waste efforts and we´re even more excited about what lies ahead," Supervalu president and CEO Craig Herkert said in a statement. "Keeping waste out of landfills is better for the environment, better for our customers and better for the bottom line. It´s simply the right thing for us to do."

Contact Waste & Recycling News reporter Vince Bond at vbond@crain.com or 313-446-1653.

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