Co-op has introduced a new initiative aimed at both reducing food waste and offering shoppers a chance to save money. The “Too Good To Waste” scheme, which is now available across 2,300 Co-op stores in the UK, offers a 50% discount on a wide range of in-store bakery items after 6pm every day. This move is the latest in a series of efforts by the retailer to promote sustainability while providing benefits for its loyal customers.
The scheme targets bakery products that are close to their sell-by date, allowing shoppers to purchase items at half price. With an increasing emphasis on sustainability and waste reduction in retail, Co-op’s initiative is seen as a response to both consumer demand for value and the growing need for responsible food consumption. But it’s not just about saving pennies—Co-op’s program also addresses the issue of food waste that affects supermarkets and consumers alike.
How It Works: Discounts for Co-op Members
Co-op’s “Too Good To Waste” scheme applies to loose, unpackaged bakery items such as croissants, pains au chocolat, and a variety of bread rolls, which are sold at discounted prices after 6pm. For example, popular items like butter croissants and cinnamon swirls are available for just 50p, while white rustic rolls can be bought for as little as 25p.
To access these discounts, shoppers must be signed up to the Co-op Membership program, which costs £1 to join. The scheme will run daily from 6pm until stock runs out or until the store closes at 11:59pm. According to Charlotte Waring, Co-op Buyer, the initiative is designed to “help our members save while also reducing food waste,” offering a “simple way” for customers to enjoy bakery treats and make a positive impact on the environment.
With the UK facing an annual food waste crisis, schemes like this offer a practical solution to mitigate the environmental impact of unsold food, particularly in convenience stores where products are often close to expiry.
A Win for Customers and the Environment
Beyond the financial savings, Co-op’s “Too Good To Waste” scheme addresses a growing concern among UK shoppers—food waste. The average household in the UK wastes around £700 worth of food each year, with much of it originating from supermarkets. The fact that Co-op’s scheme focuses on bakery items, which are prone to being thrown away after a certain time, makes it an effective way to reduce unnecessary waste.
This initiative also highlights the increasing role of loyalty programmes in creating a more sustainable shopping experience. Co-op’s membership offers more than just bakery discounts, providing members with access to personalised offers, exclusive discounts, and even presale concert tickets. This strategy has not only attracted loyal customers but has positioned the retailer as a leader in the sustainability movement among convenience stores.
Co-op’s “Too Good To Waste” initiative is a win for both consumers and the environment. It provides an affordable option for shoppers while tackling food waste, a critical issue facing the retail sector today. As the UK continues to grapple with the environmental impact of food production and consumption, it’s clear that supermarkets like Co-op are taking concrete steps to make a meaningful difference.
