Retailers outlined their commitments and strategies during the closing day of the virtual RBI Sustainability Summit – making it clear that sustainability journeys in Retail Brands are well underway.

Speakers from retailers including Walmart, Tesco, CVS Health and Giant Eagle relayed unique takes on Retail Brand sustainability approaches while acknowledging that a lot more work lies ahead.

Walmart Eyes Supplier Collaboration

Executives from Walmart communicated how the company is advancing its Retail Brand commitments and seeking supplier partnerships.

“In private brands, we are committed to driving towards a regenerative future,” said Cheryl Lam, Walmart’s Sustainability Packaging Leader, Private Brands. “We are embedding sustainability and the circular economy as part of our everyday focus. We want to pilot innovative solutions and reduce our plastic footprint.”

Tesco Focuses on Packaging Complexity

Tesco is aiming to reduce complexity to help its suppliers drive more sustainable packaging, said Paul Earnshaw, Senior Packaging Manager. The retailer is leveraging a color-coded system to relay to suppliers which packaging materials are acceptable and which are not, and the information is constantly updated.

“It’s a way to think about different materials,” he said. “And it’s only the start of the journey.”

RBI Outlines New Plans

The RBI Summit drew attendees from some 30 countries to the organization’s second annual event on sustainability.

Christopher Durham, RBI President, told attendees that the organization’s focus is on helping to foster and grow Retail Brands. He announced new initiatives that enhance the value RBI brings to members — with the biggest benefits, discounts and special packages available to the paid tiers of Plus and Pro members. The initiatives include the following.

• Business Directory: This directory — separate from RBI’s member directory — includes company name, description and contact information.
• Job Postings: RBI’s job postings help the industry recruit talent.
• Content Posts: RBI is making available the opportunity for companies to post thought leadership and press releases.

Among other developments, the annual Vertex Awards international design competition just opened its call for entries, and events for next year include the Velocity conference, which will be held May 16 to 18 at the Charlotte Convention Center.

Retailers Pick Their Spots in Sustainability

A key point made during the RBI Summit is that retailers need to pick their sustainability spots, because each retailer can’t do everything.  A presentation from CVS Health outlined efforts to communicate about recyclability on packaging. Another one from Giant Eagle explained how local foods and farms are important to that regional retailer’s strategy.

“We realized there are certain things we want to be known for to tell our story,” said Cara Mercil, Director of Sustainability, Giant Eagle.