Dutch retailer Albert Heijn has opened what it says is its most sustainable supermarket to date in the Westergouwe district in Gouda, which implements various principles of the circular economy.
The construction of the building optimised the use of recycled and recyclable materials for paving and sewering purposes.
A Challenging Task
Anneke de Vries, senior vice-president of real estate, construction & franchise at Albert Heijn, said, "Building a 'circular store' is a real challenge. We are inventing the wheel here. Not in a laboratory, but in daily practice.
"That is why we worked closely with our suppliers, contractors, consultants and with the municipality of Gouda in this pilot project."
Additionally, the building has been designed to enable the dismantling of its steel structure, roof, and facade for future reuse.
Materials used in the finishing of the store, such as lighting, ceiling cladding, floors, and fire hose holders, are made of recycled materials.
Sustainable Furniture
Reused racks, cash registers, shopping baskets, and shopping trolleys, are a part of the store's sustainable furniture system. In addition to that, the furniture used in the cooling installations, refrigeration area, and self-scanning facilities are reusable.
The outlet also has an energy-efficient system, for refrigeration and freezing purposes, which emits less CO2.
Councillor Rogier Tetteroo of the municipality of Gouda feels that the new store is a welcome addition to the area.
He said, "Westergouwe is a neighbourhood where sustainable building and living are central. This Albert Heijn trial shop fits perfectly here and is an asset for all residents.”
© 2018 European Supermarket Magazine – your source for the latest retail news. Article by Dayeeta Das. Click subscribe to sign up to ESM: European Supermarket Magazine.
