These measures have been led by Compass’ procurement division – Foodbuy. It now has a dedicated sustainability team who are reviewing its supply chain and looking at how Compass can support suppliers to become more sustainable.
Anne Simonnet, head of sustainability and compliance at Foodbuy, commented: “Fruit and vegetable produce is our second biggest buying category, so to have none of these items air freighted is significant.
“We have worked hard to find suppliers that are closer to home - with no compromise on quality. The actions we have taken on eggs and fish are also important steps and we will continue to engage with our partners and suppliers to reduce emissions and focus on animal welfare.”
The changes include:
- Banning air freight of fresh fruit and vegetable produce. The ban will see a focus on further increasing the use of local and seasonal products. Compass chefs have been focussing on reworking menus to accommodate these changes.
- Using free range eggs (shell and liquid) in the UK and introducing white eggs into the supply chain. This move exceeds the previous target of committing to cage free eggs by 2025.
- Removing Marine Conservation Society rated 4 and 5 seafood, from its UK supply chain.
Carolyn Ball, director for delivery of net zero at Compass Group UK & Ireland, said: “We must match our intent with the urgency to act and we would like to thank our partners, suppliers, colleagues and clients for supporting us on the journey so far. Together we will, and we must, continue to be a catalyst for transformative change.”