Tesco launches phase two of Remove, Reduce, Reuse & Recycle plan to suppliers

Tesco has launched the second phase of its Remove, Reduce, Reuse & Recycle plan, which sets out four steps that will govern packaging design across all product categories:

Remove all non-recyclable and hard to recycle material
Where we can’t remove, reduce it to an absolute minimum, including excess packaging
Explore new opportunities to reuse it, and if we can’t
Ensure it is all recycled as part of a closed loop.

Since announcing its ambition in 2018 to remove hard-to-recycle materials, Tesco will have eliminated the hardest to recycle materials from own brand products by the end of 2019, by removing over 4,000 tonnes of materials from 8,000 lines. The company is now working with branded suppliers to do the same.

At four meetings with over 1,500 suppliers, Tesco set out its vision for the next stage of its packaging agenda. The retailer is committed to removing excess packaging from Tesco brand and branded products. Tesco also briefed suppliers that from next year, the size and suitability of packaging will be assessed as part of category reviews and ranging decisions.