German discounters Aldi Süd and Aldi Nord have committed to sourcing all flowers and plants from sustainable sources for their Aldi branches and their online range, Aldi Blumen.
The retailers said that they are aiming to minimise the use of pesticides and protect the health and working conditions for employees in the plant and flower industry, according to Aldi Süd.
The discounters said that they plan to introduce the GLOBAL G.A.P. GGN consumer label for all their flower and plant products. The label is an international standard that assures good practice through safe and sustainable agriculture. Additionally, it allows consumers to track their plants online.
“We are very pleased that such strong partners as Aldi Nord and Aldi Süd are implementing their commitment for more sustainability,” said Kristian Möller, managing director of GLOBAL G.A.P.
“This move helps GLOBAL G.A.P.-certified growers to be more transparent about their commitment to sustainability, as well as health and safety,” Möller continued.
Sustainable Policies
The Aldi Nord and Aldi Süd purchasing policies of relevant commodities and products, such as coffee, tea and palm oil, offer a concrete framework for suppliers and business partners, according to the retailers. At the same time, they can help formulate the expectations and goals for the workers within the supply chain, they said.
“Sustainable products should become a matter of course for retailers and consumers, and the flower- and plant-purchasing policy is yet another commitment to our overall sustainable strategy,” said Julia Adou, head of corporate responsibility at Aldi Süd.
“Together with our suppliers, we want to ensure the cultivation of flowers and plants, while respecting the health of the workers, and we are glad that the consumer can support us in this effort,” said Erik Hollmann, head of corporate responsibility (non-food) at Aldi Nord.
Over this year, both discounters have worked on their sustainability efforts. In November, Aldi Süd looked for more environmentally sustainable alternatives of transport and logistics by trialling natural-gas and electric-powered trucks.
Aldi Nord also improved its sustainability by introducing long-lasting reusable plastic bags in October. Both retailers committed to eliminating disposable bags in July.
© 2017 European Supermarket Magazine – your source for the latest retail news. Article by Kevin Duggan. Click subscribe to sign up to ESM: The European Supermarket Magazine.
