MUNICH, GERMANY - A boost in logistics efficiency and sustainability has been secured by Aldi's European network. The grocer recently announced the implementation of IFCO's reusable plastic containers (RPCs) for its fresh fruit and vegetable categories.

"Our priority was to ensure the switch to IFCO RPCs across the ALDI Nord and ALDI SÜD European operations would be as sustainable as possible," said Christoph Trixl, Vice President, North and Central Europe at IFCO. “This complex project was a success thanks to the close and innovative collaboration between the teams and our shared objectives. Together, we have achieved a very positive result. We're proud of the customer-centric outcome, which sets sustainability benchmarks for circular models in packaging for the fresh grocery retail landscape.”

According to a press release, the flat design of folded IFCO RPCs optimizes the capacity of shipments, which reduces the cost and carbon footprint of transporting empty RPCs.

In addition, the sturdy nature of the RPCs ensures a more stable and protective palletization and transportation of fresh products.

"Our circular model already complies with the proposed EU standards, which is why we can support companies in making the smooth transition to reusable, recyclable packaging at speed and at scale," said Iñigo Canalejo, Vice President ESG and Strategic Marketing at IFCO. "Our established circular model provides ambitious sustainability gains."

The duo worked together to ensure containers from the original ALDI SÜD proprietary pool would not go to waste; old containers were granulated, re-manufactured into new robust IFCO RPCs, and incorporated into the IFCO SmartCycle pooling system, closing the loop and avoiding waste.

For more information on this innovative packaging partnership, click here.

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