On July 1, Geant introduced reusable bags to its 12 hypermarkets and supermarkets across the country.
The launch comes after the UAE announced its agenda to eliminate single-use plastic in the next two years and the capital’s ban of single-use plastic bags last month.
“Géant has always been one step ahead and there are already several in-store touchpoints where we encourage and foster sustainability,” said Marc Laurent, president of GMG Consumer’s retail division.
“From offering paper bags to reusable containers in our ‘grab and go’ section, we are committed to make a positive social, environmental and economic impact on the future of the food retail industry.
“We are confident that this initiative will further encourage our customers to opt for a more sustainable future and choose Géant as their preferred supermarket chain.”
Dubai also imposed a tariff of 25 fils on single-use plastic bags.
Géant will donate a portion of proceeds made from purchases of these bags to Emirates Nature-WWF, Dubai-based non-profit organisation which seeks to preserve the UAE’s national heritage.
“Over the years, we have actively partnered with Emirates Nature-WWF to support their efforts to build a sustainable future and we are excited to be giving our Géant customers the chance to join us on this important and transformative journey,” Mr Laurent added.
The country’s agenda aligns with Géant’s aim to make its food packaging options 100 per cent recyclable, compostable and reusable.
“Our corporate partners play a crucial role in the green recovery,” said Laila Mostafa Abdullatif, director general of Emirates Nature-WWF.
“Single-use plastics, such as shopping bags have a devastating impact on the UAE’s climate and biodiversity, which, in turn, affects our food and water security.
“Corporates have the reach to drive behaviour change at great scale and encouraging customers to [avoid] single-use plastics with more intention while also supporting our programmes is a two-fold advance towards a green, sustainable future.”
The grocery retailer has also partnered with various waste management, water consumption packaging and recycling companies.
Géant’s latest hypermarket at Dubai Hills Mall has integrated sustainability features, such as stations where customers can bring reusable containers to fill with dry ingredients, including cereals, nuts and grains.
