Tesco to Offer Expiring Food for Free in New Trial to Cut Waste
Tesco, Britain’s largest supermarket chain with a 27.8% market share, is launching a new food waste reduction trial. The initiative will allow customers to take expiring food for free at select Express stores after 9:30 PM, following donations to charities and staff.
Tesco’s Food Waste Reduction Initiative
- Free Expiring Food After Discounts – Customers can collect yellow sticker items for free at the end of the day.
- Charities & Staff Get First Priority – Unsold food will be offered to charities and employees first.
- Trial Begins in Express Stores – The pilot program will launch in select locations in the coming months.
Tesco’s Commitment to Sustainability
- Goal to Halve Food Waste by 2030 – Part of Tesco’s pledge alongside other retailers.
- Millions of Meals Donated Monthly – Tesco already donates unsold food to charities and food banks.
- 61% Emissions Reduction Since 2015 – Tesco has surpassed its 2025 sustainability target by using renewable energy and efficient refrigeration.
Why This Matters: Cost-of-Living Crisis in the UK
Rising Demand for Discounted Food – A Barclays report found two-thirds of UK households bought discounted groceries in 2023.
1.4 Million New Food Bank Users – The Trussell Trust reports a sharp increase in food bank reliance over the last two years.
Tesco’s free expiring food trial aims to reduce waste, help struggling families, and promote sustainability. If successful, it could expand nationwide, benefiting millions of customers while tackling food insecurity.
