Beating off competition from Morrisons, Sainsbury’s and Tesco, The Co-operative picked up the award for its commitment to sustainable retailing.
Judges said The Co-operative “walks the walk” when it comes to sustainability, and praised the retailer for “delivering a totally sustainable business model”.
The Co-operative is leading the way as a sustainable retailer with the launch of its groundbreaking Ethical Plan earlier this year. Having cut its greenhouse gas emissions by 35% since 2006, it has pledged to go carbon neutral by 2012.
Sales of Fairtrade products, which guarantee a minimum price and a better deal for growers in developing countries, have almost tripled over the past three years at The Co-operative, as the retailer takes Fairtrade to the next level with further product conversions planned.
Peter Marks, group chief executive, The Co-operative Group, said: “This award recognises the hard work of everyone within The Co-operative, working with our suppliers to deliver on our social goals and provide value for our customers in a responsible way.”
Source: Co-operative
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