A co-operative (co-op) is a different kind of business. Our Co-op is owned by individual members and other co-ops, not big investors,
and our members get a chance to have a say in how we’re run.
Profits mean members receive money, rewards and offers and a co-op can support its local community.
The Co-op on Arran is very involved in local issues and is an active parter of TAP-Arran.
Plastics/ packaging
Why do we use plastic at all?
While being plastic-free seems on the face of things to be the right way to go, it is important to also understand that the plastic
packaging that we use does protect products and reduces food waste. WRAP (leading environmental charity) has evidence showing that
after storing fresh produce in the right place, keeping the plastic wrapper on has the biggest benefit for reducing food waste.
In our approach with plastic packaging, we need to be conscious of consequences, intended or otherwise, so that we can make the best
sustainable decisions, working closely with both supply and, waste-value supply chains.
What about biodegradable options?
Biodegradable alternatives still need a disposal route. The obvious route is to put them in food waste collections,
but this is not allowed, and could result in the food waste being sent to landfill instead of being dealt with properly.
Black and deep coloured plastics are not accepted for recycling, so why do we use them?
Committed to ridding aisles of black – and dark coloured plastic (so-called vanity black plastic) – by 2020. We have already
made a start on this commitment.
What is the most difficult obstacle when tackling recyclable products?
Some materials currently don’t have a market for recyclability – which means they aren’t accepted at kerbside in many areas of the
country. Films and plastic bags are a good examples of this. Hidden plastics can also be tricky and you may have seen recently
that we trialled a fully compostable tea bag for our 99 Tea brand, which can be accepted in food waste collections.
What does Co-op think about bottle return schemes (DRS or Deposit Return Schemes)?
We were among the first retailers in favour of the creation of a deposit return scheme which increases the overall recycling of
packaging, significantly reduces litter and, importantly, helps tackle marine pollution.
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