Seven ways to engage your Store Associates in the fight against food waste

In our September 2024 meeting of the food waste working group we reflected on the question as to how to engage store associates in the fight against food waste.

Here were the key insights and takeaways for retailers on how to win the hearts, minds, and trust of associates in the war against food waste:

1. Education and Awareness

• Training Programmes: Develop comprehensive training programs that educate associates on the impact of food waste on the environment, the community, and the business. Use engaging formats like animations, videos, and gamification to make the training interactive and memorable.
• Certification Programs: Implement certification programs that recognise associates' efforts and knowledge in reducing food waste. This can boost morale and create a sense of achievement.

2. Emotional Engagement

• Storytelling: Share powerful stories that highlight the real-world impact of food waste reduction. Use testimonials from associates who have personal experiences with food insecurity to create an emotional connection.
• Community Impact: Emphasize how associates' actions contribute to the well-being of their local communities. Highlight the positive outcomes of food donation programs and sustainability initiatives.

3. Clear Communication

• Transparency: Provide clear and consistent communication about the company's goals, initiatives, and progress in reducing food waste. Use various channels like intranet, newsletters, and in-store posters to keep associates informed.
• Feedback Mechanisms: Create opportunities for associates to share their ideas and feedback. Regularly update them on how their suggestions are being implemented.

4. Recognition and Rewards

• Competitions and Challenges: Organize internal competitions to motivate stores and associates to excel in food waste reduction. Recognise top performers and celebrate their achievements.
• Awards and Recognition: Implement awards and recognition programs to acknowledge associates' contributions. This can include certificates, public recognition, and tangible rewards.

5. Practical Tools and Resources

• Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs): Provide detailed SOPs that outline the steps associates need to take to reduce food waste. Ensure these procedures are easy to understand and follow.
• Data Tracking: Use data tracking tools to monitor food waste metrics at the store level. Share these metrics with associates to create a sense of accountability and competition.

6. Collaboration and Partnerships

• Engage with NGOs and Food Banks: Strengthen partnerships with local NGOs and food banks. Facilitate visits to these organizations to help associates understand the impact of their efforts.
• Cross-Department Collaboration: Encourage collaboration between different departments to create a unified approach to food waste reduction.

7. Continuous Improvement

• Regular Training Updates: Refresh training content regularly to keep it relevant and engaging. Incorporate new insights and best practices.
• Innovation and Adaptation: Stay open to new ideas and innovative approaches. Adapt communication and engagement strategies based on feedback and changing circumstances.

By focusing on these areas, retailers can effectively engage their associates in the fight against food waste, fostering a culture of sustainability and community support.