Italy's Etruria Cooperative, a master franchisee of French retailer Auchan Group, has opened its first "ecologically attentive" supermarket.
The remodeled Simply store in Capalbio near Grosseto combines respect for the environment, promotion of local products and convenience. It is designed to maximize the reduction of consumption and CO2 emissions, by relying on technical innovations – from the choice of materials for the structure to the use of low-consumption lighting, installations and equipment.
A mini photovoltaic plant with a power of 20kw has been installed on the premises for electricity production, while the use of LED lights will reduce energy consumption by more than 50 per cent. The use of glass roofs and high output central refrigerators will provide an annual saving of over 40 per cent.
Recycled materials are being used for the carts and baskets in the store, resulting in savings of 12kg of CO2 for each cart and 1kg for each basket. Additionally, self-service distributors of bulk products (cereals, wine and food for animals) have been introduced to reduce waste and CO2 emissions.
The assortment includes a selection of locally produced products, such as wine, oil, meat, fruit, vegetables, cold cuts, cheeses and baked goods, distinguished by the "Sapori & Valori" logo. The range consists of over 100 bio products, including those from the Bioitalia and Bio Simply lines. Also present are "Benessere Plus" products and over 100 gluten-free foods.
© 2015 European Supermarket Magazine – your source for the latest retail news. Article by Branislav Pekic
