To mark World Environment Day (5 June) and World Oceans Day (8 June), a number of retailers announced plans to step up their efforts in reducing plastic waste.
Woolworths revealed its vision of zero packaging waste to landfill, committing to phase out nonrecyclable plastic packaging for its own-brand products by 2022. While Food Lover's Market has launched a Withdraw The Straw campaign and will be replacing all plastic straws with paper ones in its stores nationally.
Pick n Pay also announced a set of focused initiatives to reduce plastic waste, including the introduction of 100% recyclable plastic bags and free plastic collection from online customer homes.
In other top news, KFC has opened its first restaurant in Côte d'Ivoire, continuing the fried chicken brand's steady expansion across the African continent. I chatted to Andrew Havinga, general manager, KFC new Africa markets, who shared details behind the company's expansion strategy.
I've also rounded up some of our favourite food and beverage products in this week's #FreshOnTheShelf column - including new ready-to-eat meals from Clover, a demi-sec blend from Pongrácz, artisanal spice rubs from Robertsons and flavoured green teas from Tetley.
Last but not least, Mercy Mpinganjira shares how innovative e-commerce approaches can help small businesses in Africa.
Till next time. Have an inspiring week!
Lauren Hartzenberg
Retail Editor: Bizcommunity.com
