Roisin O’Sullivan, Bord Bia Madrid

Spain is behind Ireland and many of its EU counterparts in terms of sustainability in the retail sector. However, this is beginning to change. Carrefour, Spain’s largest retailer is among the many companies becoming more environmentally conscious. In September 2009, the French retailer led the sustainability initiative to eliminate plastic bags in favour of a more environmentally-friendly and reusable alternative at no cost during the introductory phase.

Similarly, sustainability is also the driving force behind Coca Cola Spain’s latest product launch; a new dilutable drink “Menos es Más”(Less is more), 100% Spanish with the aim of encouraging consumers to play their part in helping the environment. It boasts 6 times less packaging, less space in the fridge and lower transport costs, thus less C02. Staying within the drinks industry, Font Vella, a leading competitor in the Spanish mineral water market have launched the first recyclable plastic bottle to the market as part of the company’s strategy to reduce their CO2 emissions by 10% annually.

The success of Veritas, a Catalan chain of ecological supermarkets throughout Spain has further highlighted the growth of the organic food sector in Spain. The chain, with 19 stores and expanding, have shown that sustainability in retail is a growing trend.

The change in attitude is not only for the benefit of the environment but is tied to the promotion of healthy foods.