From 9 to 22 October, various store formats of Colruyt Group will hold a fundraising campaign for Food Banks. During this period, the shopping trolley will be the key way for customers to contribute. A flip-chart on the trolley – which remains free to use otherwise – will allow customers to make a donation, which will go entirely to the Food Banks. This is a welcome addition for the Food Banks, with whom Colruyt Group collaborates constructively throughout the year. In 2023, the retailer donated over 7,862 tonnes of unsold products for people in vulnerable situations.
No coin for the trolley, but donations for the Food Banks
The shopping trolleys at Colruyt Lowest Prices, Okay, Bio-Planet, and Collect&Go will feature special communication from 9 to 22 October. The trolleys – for which no coin is usually needed at Colruyt Group – will be equipped with a flip-chart that allows customers to donate two euros (or more) to the Food Banks. Customers can have this flip-chart scanned by the store employees at the checkout one or more times, and their donation will be added to their receipt. The total amount collected will go entirely to the Food Banks.
15.7 million meals
Anne Verdoolaege, responsible for collaboration with Food Banks at Colruyt Group, states:“Colruyt Group and the Food Banks work very constructively together all year round. It is important for us to minimise food waste, and we achieve this through optimal stock management. We are proud to sell more than 97% of the fresh articles and frozen products in our stores, thereby reducing food waste to a minimum. However, there will always be unsold products. We donate this food through Food Banks to those in need. We work directly and indirectly with over 400 social organisations to ensure that the products reach those who need them most.”In 2023, the retailer donated 7,862 tonnes of unsold products to Food Banks, which equates to 15.7 million meals.
Unique approach
Marc Mertens, Managing Director of the Belgian Federation of Food Banks, says: “The food donated by Colruyt Group's stores is crucial for us. We appreciate their unique approach to providing us with the necessary food products on a daily basis, allowing us to substantially assist people in vulnerable situations. But in addition, we need financial resources to finance our operation and purchase additional products. So we applaud Colruyt Group for organizing this action and allowing customers to donate through their shopping trolley. We are confident this campaign will be a success.” More information about the work of the Food Banks can be found at www.foodbanks.be.
Anne Verdoolaege adds: “Food Banks are close to our hearts, and therefore, Colruyt Group employees will also participate in the fundraising campaign and engage with customers about the importance of donating. And for clarity: the shopping trolleys remain free to use, but a (much-needed) donation to the Food Banks via a shopping trolley is greatly appreciated.”
