Greggs advances sustainability goals, opens 1,015 breakfast clubs

LONDON - Greggs (LON:GRG) PLC, the prominent UK food-on-the-go retailer, has released its 2024 sustainability report, showcasing notable advancements in its commitments to community, environmental, and business sustainability. The report, titled "The Greggs Pledge," aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and presents the company’s progress on ten key targets aimed at making a positive impact by the end of 2025.

One of the major achievements highlighted in the report is the expansion of the Greggs Foundation Breakfast Club program, which reached a milestone of 1,015 clubs, providing free, nutritious breakfasts to over 75,000 schoolchildren across the UK every school day. Additionally, Greggs has donated the equivalent of one million meals to FareShare over a decade-long partnership and expanded its network of Outlet shops to 38 locations, targeting areas of social deprivation.

The company has also made strides in animal welfare, securing a top four ranking among 150 of the world’s largest food companies in the Business Benchmark on Farm Animal Welfare (BBFAW). Innovations include the introduction of industry-first heat-resistant, recycled PET (rPET) hot drink lids.

In terms of environmental sustainability, Greggs reported that 60% of the gas used across operations is from renewable sources, and its Enfield distribution depot has switched to using hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) as a diesel replacement. The company aims to increase the use of HVO across its fleet to 30% of its fuel requirement by the end of 2025.

The report also outlines Greggs’ commitment to reducing food waste, increasing healthier food options, and ensuring its workforce reflects the communities it serves. By the end of 2025, Greggs plans to create 25% less food waste than in 2018, maintain over 30% of its range as ’Healthier Choice’ products, and uphold its National Equality Standard accreditation.

To further its sustainability objectives, Greggs has set clear targets for the coming year, including opening more Outlet shops, continuing the rollout of its Eco-Shop design across stores, and moving all own brand packaging to be easily recyclable.

Roisin Currie, Chief Executive at Greggs, stated their pride in the progress made and emphasized the company’s commitment to evolving its initiatives based on new insights and stakeholder priorities. The full roadmap for the next phase of The Greggs Pledge is set to be outlined in the next sustainability report due in 2026.

This report is based on a press release statement and reflects the company’s dedication to social and environmental responsibility while continuing to serve communities across the UK.

This article was generated with the support of AI and reviewed by an editor. For more information see our T&C.