Launch of in-store recycling stations by Lidl
Lidl Ireland has announced plans to become the first Irish retailer to offer customers in-store recycling stations nationwide to reduce packaging waste bought in-store. Lidl has committed to introducing segregated recycling stations at the end of customer checkouts in all 160 stores across Ireland. They will be rolled out from the start of May and will be available across all stores by May 31st.
This market-leading initiative will offer Lidl’s almost two million weekly customers the opportunity to remove any unwanted recyclable packaging and to recycle it free-of-charge in-store once they have completed their shopping, therefore avoiding any disposal costs associated with bringing the packaging home.
The launch of this nationwide initiative follows a trial of these recycling stations in three Lidl stores – Gorey, Greystones and Ballycullen - which proved to be a huge success with Lidl customers. Lidl anticipates that the countrywide rollout of these recycling stations will result in tonnes of plastic, cardboard and other recyclable materials being recycled across their store network.
The launch of the new in-store recycling stations was welcomed by Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment Richard Bruton. Speaking at the launch Minister Bruton commented: “Industry leadership is key if we are to achieve a more sustainable lifestyle which is so crucially needed. This initiative launched by Lidl, will be welcomed by consumers and also send a signal through the supply chain to reduce unnecessary packaging. Working individually and collaboratively, the entire retail industry has a powerful role to play in tackling this issue.”