With a focus on sustainable, local sourcing, the new policy announcements 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, with Compass chefs reworking menus to accommodate these changes.
Using free range eggs (shell and liquid) in the UK and introducing white eggs into the supply chain – an initiative that exceeds a previous commitment to use cage free eggs exclusively by 2025; and
Removing Marine Conservation Society rated 4 and 5 seafood from the UK supply chain.
The new measures are being led by Compass’ procurement division, Foodbuy, whose dedicated sustainability team are reviewing group-wide supply chain practices to support suppliers in becoming more sustainable, and to focus on regenerative agriculture and switching from animal to plant-based proteins.
Anne Simonnet, Head of Sustainability and Compliance at Foodbuy, comments: “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.”
