Crai Introduces New Business Model Focusing On Proximity, Sustainability
Italian grocery retail group Crai has implemented a new business model that emphasises proximity, local sourcing, and social responsibility while prioritising sustainability and community engagement.
Speaking on the occasion of the presentation of the company’s first Sustainability Report, CEO Giangiacomo Ibba, announced that Crai is focusing on the proximity format because time has become a precious commodity for consumers, according to a report in the daily Corriere della Sera.
The focus on local communities is particularly important in Italy, where a large number of small municipalities exist. These municipalities often have populations of less than 3,000 people and are characterised by a strong sense of community and social connection.
Crai’s decentralised model allows the company to establish a presence in these areas and provide essential goods and services to residents. This approach also supports green mobility by reducing the need for long-distance travel.
Sustainability Goals
In terms of sustainability, Crai is committed to reducing food waste, promoting local sourcing, and investing in environmentally friendly practices.
The company collaborates with charities to donate surplus food, optimises its logistics operations to minimise transportation emissions, and prioritises the use of sustainable packaging.
Crai also focuses on quality and sustainability by sourcing local products and developing its private label brand that offers 2,700 SKUs, adhering to stringent quality standards, utilising premium ingredients and eco-friendly production methods.
Crai’s successful model has the potential to be exported to other markets. The company is currently exploring opportunities in Budapest and Bratislava to open two temporary stores to introduce Italian food and lifestyle products to these regions.
The Crai retail group operates through a network of 1,800 stores, owned and operated by over 1,300 local entrepreneurs who are affiliated with the Crai system.
Crai generated €3 billion in revenue in 2023 and has set a goal of reaching €4 billion by 2027.
ESM
Related news
K&H sustainability index: there are more good intentions, but actions are still to be taken
According to the latest data from a representative survey conducted…
Read more >Lidl holds on to its market leader position – they celebrated 20 years in Hungary last year
Last year Lidl celebrated 20 years in Hungary by investing…
Read more >Dm invests in technological development, store network and employee training
Focus on supporting and training employees Supporting employees and creating a…
Read more >Related news
The special retail tax will remain until 2026
The new tax package announced recently brings significant changes for…
Read more >The European Commission demands the abolition of margin squeeze
The European Commission has launched infringement proceedings against Hungary over…
Read more >Mohu’s bottle return role in jeopardy due to a new EU regulation
According to a new European Union regulation, from 2029, only…
Read more >