Our focus areas
Click on the wheel to explore our strategic focus areas
METRO SUSTAINABLE is the framework for and driver of our actions towards customer sustainability. It means placing METRO at the core of transforming and driving responsible and sustainable business – at our own business but most importantly along our supply chain and with our customers. We want to share our knowledge and show how suppliers and customers benefit from sustainable choices. They can profit, for example, in terms of energy efficiency and improved waste management and the resulting opportunities related to lower costs, better products with higher margins, new customer groups and a competitive edge. They profit from more efficiency hence less costs, better products with higher margins, new customer groups and a way ahead of competitors.
To make our approach METRO SUSTAINABLE directly tangible and realizable for our customers, we transferred it to the concept of “My sustainable Restaurant” – a pragmatic guidance to promote sustainable gastronomy.
human-rights
Championing our customers by promoting Human Rights
We value each and every person working with and for us as our most precious resource. Therefore, METRO stands strong for ensuring Human Rights within its own operations and its value chain, empowered through trustful partnerships with relevant stakeholders. That is to ensure our customers know that we care about people as much as they do.
Read more at METRO Responsibility.
Brief description
METRO is committed to respecting human rights in its own operations as well as along the entire value chain. For METRO Food Sourcing as well as our national entities, cooperation with suppliers must be based on transparency, trust and a shared understanding of values in order to not only offer excellent products but also to establish healthy employee structures.
Customer benefit
- Offer socially compliant products to their customers.
- Customers can participate in finding local solutions.
Our contribution
- Enabling tangible improvements in workers’ quality of life.
- Raise the bar for workers’ rights in local supply chains.
SDGs
Read more at MPULSE.
Brief description
Since the start of the project in 2018, the national entities in Turkey, Pakistan, Ukraine, Bulgaria, Spain, Serbia, Croatia, Myanmar and the sourcing office in Hong Kong have conducted employee training on the topic of human rights due diligence. Using the example of modern forced labour, participants were trained on how to prevent, address and combat human rights violations.
Customer benefit
- Compliance with human rights within METRO grants our customers professionalism and strengthens the commitment of all of us to human rights compliant supply chains.
Our contribution
- Communicating and spreading knowledge on the topic of human rights.
- Establishing human rights compliance processes.
SDGs
Brief description
Through a new METRO-wide Operational Safety Management System (OSMS) guideline and a manual for structuring METRO’s safety environment in accordance with ISO 45001 requirements (“Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems”), global guidelines and processes for operational safety management are established in the company. In addition, training and information campaigns to reduce safety incidents not only develop a common understanding, but also improve safety, efficiency and effectiveness.
Customer benefit
- Safety measures to keep customers safe while they shop.
Our contribution
- Measures aimed at ensuring that employees can work in a safe and secure environment.
SDGs
Brief description
METRO is committed to respecting human rights in its own operations as well as along the entire value chain. For METRO Food Sourcing as well as our national entities, cooperation with suppliers must be based on transparency, trust and a shared understanding of values in order to not only offer excellent products but also to establish healthy employee structures.
Customer benefit
- Offer socially compliant products to their customers.
- Customers can participate in finding local solutions.
Our contribution
- Enabling tangible improvements in workers’ quality of life.
- Raise the bar for workers’ rights in local supply chains.
SDGs
Read more at MPULSE.
Brief description
Since the start of the project in 2018, the national entities in Turkey, Pakistan, Ukraine, Bulgaria, Spain, Serbia, Croatia, Myanmar and the sourcing office in Hong Kong have conducted employee training on the topic of human rights due diligence. Using the example of modern forced labour, participants were trained on how to prevent, address and combat human rights violations.
Customer benefit
- Compliance with human rights within METRO grants our customers professionalism and strengthens the commitment of all of us to human rights compliant supply chains.
Our contribution
- Communicating and spreading knowledge on the topic of human rights.
- Establishing human rights compliance processes.
SDGs
Brief description
Through a new METRO-wide Operational Safety Management System (OSMS) guideline and a manual for structuring METRO’s safety environment in accordance with ISO 45001 requirements (“Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems”), global guidelines and processes for operational safety management are established in the company. In addition, training and information campaigns to reduce safety incidents not only develop a common understanding, but also improve safety, efficiency and effectiveness.
Customer benefit
- Safety measures to keep customers safe while they shop.
Our contribution
- Measures aimed at ensuring that employees can work in a safe and secure environment.
SDGs
organic
Championing our customers by offering Organic and Responsible Products
Restaurateurs want to offer their customers unique epicurean experiences linked amongst others to certain regional or cultural aspects. For them organic and responsible products are among the key ingredients to differentiate from others. At the same time these products are at the core of transforming the world’s challenges around sustainable consumption and production into opportunities. METRO expands its assortment continuously, helping our customers to stay unique and fulfil the needs of today’s and future generations and stands strong for sustainable use of resources.
Read more at METRO Responsibility.
Brief description
With organic and responsible products from regional production, many METRO countries such as METRO Austria, Moldova and Bulgaria are committed to socially and environmentally friendly value creation and more sustainable consumption. Because it is not only about high quality of raw materials, but also about the fact that we have a great impact on our environment as well as on people with our products and the way they are produced and marketed. Short delivery routes, resource-saving production, strengthened local structures and much more – that’s what makes a sustainable product.
Customer benefit
- Offer regional, authentic products to their customers.
- Customers can participate in finding local solutions.
Our contribution
- Strengthening local structures, especially in times of Covid-19.
- Conserving resources in the production of products for our assortment.
SDGs
Read more at MPULSE.
Brief description
Products that emphasize certain sustainability attributes are popular in the market. Especially organic products and this is also reflected on the shelves of our stores. Our procurement office in Rotterdam, for example, offers a complete range of Wagyu beef produced in Spain, in addition to various organic beef products. The life cycle of the cattle is controlled from start to finish according to a special breeding and husbandry system. This system has strict requirements which, above all, guarantee the animal welfare of the end product.
Customer benefit
- Customers can offer more sustainable dishes and thus meet the trend towards more conscious consumption.
Our contribution
- Empowering customers to make more sustainable choices for their business and their families.
SDGs
Brief description
More sustainable products have many features but being traceable is an essential one. Some METRO countries, such as France, already provide in-depth information, such as feed composition for aquaculture products, average nutritional information and certificate information to prevent illegal fishing, through a cross-sector traceability system. In METRO Turkey, the GS1-128 barcode labelling system shows customers the expiry date, batch number and ear tag number on the invoice for vacuum-packed meat and carcasses.
Customer benefit
- Offer safe and transparent traceable products.
- Passing on more in-depth information, e.g. on the dish via the menu.
Our contribution
- Increased transparency and thus safety standards in local and global supply chains.
SDGs
Brief description
By reformulating products, METRO can help our customers to have a positive influence on the health of their own customers. In the financial year 2019/20, METRO countries reformulated 88 products towards less salt and 51 towards less sugar. Reformulation also means “clean” products, e.g. without undesirable additives. We have currently converted 132 of these products.
Customer benefit
- Customers can offer healthier dishes and thus meet the trend towards more conscious consumption.
Our contribution
- Empowering customers to make healthier choices for their businesses and families.
SDGs
Key Performance Indicators for Organic and Responsible Products.
Brief description
With organic and responsible products from regional production, many METRO countries such as METRO Austria, Moldova and Bulgaria are committed to socially and environmentally friendly value creation and more sustainable consumption. Because it is not only about high quality of raw materials, but also about the fact that we have a great impact on our environment as well as on people with our products and the way they are produced and marketed. Short delivery routes, resource-saving production, strengthened local structures and much more – that’s what makes a sustainable product.
Customer benefit
- Offer regional, authentic products to their customers.
- Customers can participate in finding local solutions.
Our contribution
- Strengthening local structures, especially in times of Covid-19.
- Conserving resources in the production of products for our assortment.
SDGs
Read more at MPULSE.
Brief description
Products that emphasize certain sustainability attributes are popular in the market. Especially organic products and this is also reflected on the shelves of our stores. Our procurement office in Rotterdam, for example, offers a complete range of Wagyu beef produced in Spain, in addition to various organic beef products. The life cycle of the cattle is controlled from start to finish according to a special breeding and husbandry system. This system has strict requirements which, above all, guarantee the animal welfare of the end product.
Customer benefit
- Customers can offer more sustainable dishes and thus meet the trend towards more conscious consumption.
Our contribution
- Empowering customers to make more sustainable choices for their business and their families.
SDGs
Brief description
More sustainable products have many features but being traceable is an essential one. Some METRO countries, such as France, already provide in-depth information, such as feed composition for aquaculture products, average nutritional information and certificate information to prevent illegal fishing, through a cross-sector traceability system. In METRO Turkey, the GS1-128 barcode labelling system shows customers the expiry date, batch number and ear tag number on the invoice for vacuum-packed meat and carcasses.
Customer benefit
- Offer safe and transparent traceable products.
- Passing on more in-depth information, e.g. on the dish via the menu.
Our contribution
- Increased transparency and thus safety standards in local and global supply chains.
SDGs
Brief description
By reformulating products, METRO can help our customers to have a positive influence on the health of their own customers. In the financial year 2019/20, METRO countries reformulated 88 products towards less salt and 51 towards less sugar. Reformulation also means “clean” products, e.g. without undesirable additives. We have currently converted 132 of these products.
Customer benefit
- Customers can offer healthier dishes and thus meet the trend towards more conscious consumption.
Our contribution
- Empowering customers to make healthier choices for their businesses and families.
SDGs
Key Performance Indicators for Organic and Responsible Products.
food-waste
Championing our customers by partnering with Food Waste solutions
We know that gastronomes want their customers to indulge in their culinary delights. In the same way we want our customers to value food as much as we do. Food wasted in the process is a waste of time, effort, money and other valuable resources along the whole supply chain back to the origin of food. That’s why METRO joins forces against wasting food along the supply chain. We want our customers to benefit from solutions that save resources and costs and do good at the same time.
Read more at METRO Responsibility.
Brief description
Cooperation in 22 METRO countries with Tafel organizations and social institutions to avoid food waste in our stores, including our restaurants and warehouses, by donating goods that have been removed from sale but are still edible and safe to those in need.
METRO, in cooperation with the European food bank association FEBA and the initiators of the Romanian food bank Banca Pentru Alimente as well as other partners in the supply chain, has helped to establish a food bank organization in Romania. By now 13 METRO wholesale stores in Romania are already connected to this Tafel network. METRO is also involved in the establishment of a Tafel initiative in Kazakhstan. With the support of METRO Kazakhstan and with financial support from the UNDERDOG sports agency, the Red Crescent Society was able to open the first food bank in Kazakhstan for which METRO provides food donations.
Customer benefit
- People in need receive food donations.
- Customers can be sure that their partner METRO is aware of the issue of food waste, and they benefit from our knowledge if they want to join a Tafel organization.
Our contribution
- Delivering edible food to food banks for distribution to the needy.
- Transfer of know-how and assistance in the storage and transport of food.
- Positive contribution to the local community.
SDGs
Read more on MPULSE.
Brief description
In cooperation with Too Good To Go, we are able to prevent food spoilage in our participating markets and our own restaurants by selling surplus food, which would otherwise turn into waste, at reduced prices in a specially branded bag (Magic Bag) via an app. In the 17 stores of MAKRO Netherlands, 46,891 meals were saved within one year (October 2019 – October 2020), which corresponds to a CO2 equivalent of 117,227 kg. Meanwhile we already cooperate or have initiated cooperation in 9 METRO countries. Through our sales force teams, we also support customers in using the digital solution of TGTG to reduce food waste in their own operations.
Customer benefit
- Customers also have the possibility to cooperate with our partner Too Good To Go.
- Through METRO they can contact Too Good To Go easily and benefit from our know-how through the already existing cooperation.
- Addressing new customer groups with an awareness of the issue of preventing food waste.
Our contribution
- Food waste is avoided.
- Spreading the idea of saving food from spoilage in this way.
- Enlargement of the network of partners working against food waste.
SDGs
Brief description
METRO Turkey successfully applies a basic methodology to systematically measure and monitor food waste in its own business operations in order to systematically reduce food losses. The digital platform used for this purpose was developed by our partner Wholesurplus. In calendar year 2019, 30 METRO wholesale stores in Turkey registered 5,293 tons of food waste. Of this, 1,247 tons were delivered to animal shelters as animal feed, 3,870 tons were disposed of at landfills and 163.5 tons were donated via the Turkish food bank organization.
Customer benefit
- Customers receive goods of the highest quality, in the knowledge that goods taken out of sale are not wasted.
- Customers can benefit from our knowledge in handling food and food waste.
Our contribution
- Food waste is avoided.
- Food donations to food charities are made possible through the collection of goods that are still consumable but no longer saleable.
- Transfer of knowledge regarding the management of food waste.
SDGs
Brief description
Cooperation in 22 METRO countries with Tafel organizations and social institutions to avoid food waste in our stores, including our restaurants and warehouses, by donating goods that have been removed from sale but are still edible and safe to those in need.
METRO, in cooperation with the European food bank association FEBA and the initiators of the Romanian food bank Banca Pentru Alimente as well as other partners in the supply chain, has helped to establish a food bank organization in Romania. By now 13 METRO wholesale stores in Romania are already connected to this Tafel network. METRO is also involved in the establishment of a Tafel initiative in Kazakhstan. With the support of METRO Kazakhstan and with financial support from the UNDERDOG sports agency, the Red Crescent Society was able to open the first food bank in Kazakhstan for which METRO provides food donations.
Customer benefit
- People in need receive food donations.
- Customers can be sure that their partner METRO is aware of the issue of food waste, and they benefit from our knowledge if they want to join a Tafel organization.
Our contribution
- Delivering edible food to food banks for distribution to the needy.
- Transfer of know-how and assistance in the storage and transport of food.
- Positive contribution to the local community.
SDGs
Read more on MPULSE.
Brief description
In cooperation with Too Good To Go, we are able to prevent food spoilage in our participating markets and our own restaurants by selling surplus food, which would otherwise turn into waste, at reduced prices in a specially branded bag (Magic Bag) via an app. In the 17 stores of MAKRO Netherlands, 46,891 meals were saved within one year (October 2019 – October 2020), which corresponds to a CO2 equivalent of 117,227 kg. Meanwhile we already cooperate or have initiated cooperation in 9 METRO countries. Through our sales force teams, we also support customers in using the digital solution of TGTG to reduce food waste in their own operations.
Customer benefit
- Customers also have the possibility to cooperate with our partner Too Good To Go.
- Through METRO they can contact Too Good To Go easily and benefit from our know-how through the already existing cooperation.
- Addressing new customer groups with an awareness of the issue of preventing food waste.
Our contribution
- Food waste is avoided.
- Spreading the idea of saving food from spoilage in this way.
- Enlargement of the network of partners working against food waste.
SDGs
Brief description
METRO Turkey successfully applies a basic methodology to systematically measure and monitor food waste in its own business operations in order to systematically reduce food losses. The digital platform used for this purpose was developed by our partner Wholesurplus. In calendar year 2019, 30 METRO wholesale stores in Turkey registered 5,293 tons of food waste. Of this, 1,247 tons were delivered to animal shelters as animal feed, 3,870 tons were disposed of at landfills and 163.5 tons were donated via the Turkish food bank organization.
Customer benefit
- Customers receive goods of the highest quality, in the knowledge that goods taken out of sale are not wasted.
- Customers can benefit from our knowledge in handling food and food waste.
Our contribution
- Food waste is avoided.
- Food donations to food charities are made possible through the collection of goods that are still consumable but no longer saleable.
- Transfer of knowledge regarding the management of food waste.
SDGs
climate-action
Championing our customers by contributing to positive Climate Action
METRO invests in energy efficiency, conserves resources and avoids waste. This proves our commitment to protecting the climate and the environment as well as reducing costs and meeting legal requirements. Supporting our customers in doing the same, can save them a lot of time, effort and costs, this is how we work together for change. Partnering with suppliers helps to implement efficiency measures along the supply chain.
Read more at MPULSE and METRO Responsibility.
Brief description
Additional transcritical ejector refrigeration systems were put into operation in METRO stores in Slovakia, Germany, France, Italy, Belgium and Romania. In addition, the last CFC refrigeration systems in stock in all Russian stores were replaced by those that run on natural refrigerants.
Customer benefit
- Customers receive optimally cooled products that are less harmful to the environment. By purchasing from an environmentally conscious partner, they can reduce their CO2 footprint.
Our contribution
- Promotion of efficient, more environmentally friendly refrigeration systems
- Reduction of the environmental impact by using natural refrigerants
SDGs
Brief description
A total of 14 additional photovoltaic systems were installed in markets in France, Belgium, Bulgaria, Austria, India and Pakistan. They generate electricity with a total additional capacity of 7,086 kWp. and help to reduce CO2 emissions. In addition, we create awareness among our customers for possible green energy solutions.
Customer benefit
- Customers can learn about efficient solutions.
- Environmentally conscious customers can shop with us with peace of mind.
Our contribution
- Reduction of CO2 emissions
- More self-sufficient energy supply and use of regenerative energy
- Dissemination of more environmentally friendly energy production methods
SDGs
Brief description
A total of 460 charging stations for electric vehicles were set up for METRO customers in 14 METRO countries, thus expanding the overall local charging infrastructure. At Düsseldorf campus, 170 employees already use electric vehicles as company cars whose emissions are offset by certificates from hydropower plants.
Customer benefit
- Customers can recharge electric cars at low cost or even free of charge and use the time spent shopping for it.
- Customers reach METRO stores electrically and contribute to reducing CO2 emissions.
Our contribution
- Promoting e-mobility.
- Contribution to the development of a network of e-charging stations.
SDGs
Brief description
Additional transcritical ejector refrigeration systems were put into operation in METRO stores in Slovakia, Germany, France, Italy, Belgium and Romania. In addition, the last CFC refrigeration systems in stock in all Russian stores were replaced by those that run on natural refrigerants.
Customer benefit
- Customers receive optimally cooled products that are less harmful to the environment. By purchasing from an environmentally conscious partner, they can reduce their CO2 footprint.
Our contribution
- Promotion of efficient, more environmentally friendly refrigeration systems
- Reduction of the environmental impact by using natural refrigerants
SDGs
Brief description
A total of 14 additional photovoltaic systems were installed in markets in France, Belgium, Bulgaria, Austria, India and Pakistan. They generate electricity with a total additional capacity of 7,086 kWp. and help to reduce CO2 emissions. In addition, we create awareness among our customers for possible green energy solutions.
Customer benefit
- Customers can learn about efficient solutions.
- Environmentally conscious customers can shop with us with peace of mind.
Our contribution
- Reduction of CO2 emissions
- More self-sufficient energy supply and use of regenerative energy
- Dissemination of more environmentally friendly energy production methods
SDGs
Brief description
A total of 460 charging stations for electric vehicles were set up for METRO customers in 14 METRO countries, thus expanding the overall local charging infrastructure. At Düsseldorf campus, 170 employees already use electric vehicles as company cars whose emissions are offset by certificates from hydropower plants.
Customer benefit
- Customers can recharge electric cars at low cost or even free of charge and use the time spent shopping for it.
- Customers reach METRO stores electrically and contribute to reducing CO2 emissions.
Our contribution
- Promoting e-mobility.
- Contribution to the development of a network of e-charging stations.
SDGs
conscious-proteins
Championing our customers by fostering Conscious Proteins
In order to enable our customers to differentiate themselves and help fulfil the protein needs of future generations, METRO will contribute to the innovation and transformation of the use of conscious proteins*. We will partner with relevant stakeholders and use the latest scientific knowledge to understand what a diverse balance of proteins looks like from production through to the plate.
Read more at MPULSE and METRO Responsibility.
*For METRO, conscious protein means a diverse source of protein i.e. conventional proteins obtained from animals raised to e.g. high welfare standards or with reduced environmental impact as well as alternative proteins including insects, plant based and cell grown.
Brief description
METRO’s approach on conscious proteins is to offer a diverse range of proteins that come from sustainable sources. For us, conscious proteins include, for example, conventional animal proteins such as meat and fish, that come from animals raised in a responsible and sustainable manner. Further, conventional vegetable proteins from sustainable sources, as well as alternatives to animal proteins produced with novel technologies and ingredients. To obtain products that meet the demand for conscious proteins, we are committed to sustainable sourcing from production to consumption and aim to promote producers who make products in a more responsible way. We aim to drive sustainable consumption by creating customer awareness of the potential of conscious proteins (conventional and alternative) and by supporting customers in balancing their menus and dishes. In this way, we can have a positive impact on the entire food system.
Customer benefit
- Customers gain access to a balanced range of conscious proteins.
- Customers can respond to changing consumption needs.
- Customers receive information on the possibilities of alternative proteins and receive support in adapting their own offer accordingly.
Our contribution
- Promote conscious proteins from more sustainable sources.
- Helping to ensure a sustainable diet.
- Collaboration with partners along the value chain.
SDGs
Brief description
METRO promotes the marketing of innovative products as alternatives to fish- and meat-based products, responding to the changing needs of customers and their end consumers. For example, delicious and high-quality vegetarian and vegan alternatives to conventional meat are offered in various METRO countries. Germany and Serbia were the first METRO country to launch a plant-based pea protein burger. Our colleagues are working with customers to understand consumer interest and acceptance of these products. Vegetarian fish substitutes are also coming aboard at METRO Germany, expanding the range for vegan sushi lovers, for example. Early next year, METRO will offer a new product range of plant-based meat alternatives under its own brand METRO Chef – initially veggie chicken gyros, veggie shoarma and veggie natural chunks will be available. Other vegetarian products such as veggie burgers, ground beef and pulled beef will follow. The products are made from soy sourced from Eastern Europe and are both deforestation- and GMO-free.
Customer benefit
- Access to new ideas and solutions.
- Our customers can respond to changing consumer behavior as they sometimes seek fish- and meat-free alternatives.
Our contribution
- With our scale and geographic coverage, we can bring new solutions to market.
- Helping customers to use these products and to share information with end consumers.
SDGs
Brief description
METRO’s approach on conscious proteins is to offer a diverse range of proteins that come from sustainable sources. For us, conscious proteins include, for example, conventional animal proteins such as meat and fish, that come from animals raised in a responsible and sustainable manner. Further, conventional vegetable proteins from sustainable sources, as well as alternatives to animal proteins produced with novel technologies and ingredients. To obtain products that meet the demand for conscious proteins, we are committed to sustainable sourcing from production to consumption and aim to promote producers who make products in a more responsible way. We aim to drive sustainable consumption by creating customer awareness of the potential of conscious proteins (conventional and alternative) and by supporting customers in balancing their menus and dishes. In this way, we can have a positive impact on the entire food system.
Customer benefit
- Customers gain access to a balanced range of conscious proteins.
- Customers can respond to changing consumption needs.
- Customers receive information on the possibilities of alternative proteins and receive support in adapting their own offer accordingly.
Our contribution
- Promote conscious proteins from more sustainable sources.
- Helping to ensure a sustainable diet.
- Collaboration with partners along the value chain.
SDGs
Brief description
METRO promotes the marketing of innovative products as alternatives to fish- and meat-based products, responding to the changing needs of customers and their end consumers. For example, delicious and high-quality vegetarian and vegan alternatives to conventional meat are offered in various METRO countries. Germany and Serbia were the first METRO country to launch a plant-based pea protein burger. Our colleagues are working with customers to understand consumer interest and acceptance of these products. Vegetarian fish substitutes are also coming aboard at METRO Germany, expanding the range for vegan sushi lovers, for example. Early next year, METRO will offer a new product range of plant-based meat alternatives under its own brand METRO Chef – initially veggie chicken gyros, veggie shoarma and veggie natural chunks will be available. Other vegetarian products such as veggie burgers, ground beef and pulled beef will follow. The products are made from soy sourced from Eastern Europe and are both deforestation- and GMO-free.
Customer benefit
- Access to new ideas and solutions.
- Our customers can respond to changing consumer behavior as they sometimes seek fish- and meat-free alternatives.
Our contribution
- With our scale and geographic coverage, we can bring new solutions to market.
- Helping customers to use these products and to share information with end consumers.
SDGs
packaging-plastic
Championing our customers by innovating in Packaging und Plastic
For restaurateurs as for METRO the product is what counts. So we try to use as much packaging as necessary and as little as possible. With our own brand packaging we strive to reduce the environmental impact during a product’s entire life cycle. We actively seek alternatives for conventional plastic while ensuring that we meet the high quality and hygiene standards our customers expect. We talk with diverse stakeholders to develop innovative solutions to bring us further towards closing the loop and using less impactful materials.
Read more at METRO Responsibility.
Brief description
In METRO Ukraine where there are increasing numbers of environmentally conscious citizens but no waste sorting scheme on national level, local partnership and action is making a real impact in addressing the problem. Working closely with a private partner, we introduced waste collection points in all 10 METRO stores. One store even has a recycling expert helping the users to separate properly and explaining what can and cannot be recycled. Role model Ukraine is not alone though in this endeavor: Also, METRO Kazakhstan, France, Romania and others have waste collection points at their stores.
Customer benefit
- Customers potentially save costs of their businesses waste disposal.
- Customers can contribute visibly in solving a local problem.
Our contribution
- Setting up a waste sorting scheme on a national level in Ukraine where none existed before.
- Diverting waste from landfill.
- Preventing unrecycled waste plastic.
SDGs
Read more at MPULSE.
Brief description
In an effort to reduce the use to plastic disposable cutlery, METRO Pakistan introduced a sustainable wooden assortment including wooden cutlery, cooking spoons, gadgets like a lemon squeezer but also other products like tissue boxes and tables. Also, many other countries and METRO sourcing office offer a great variety of products from alternative materials such as bagasse, bamboo or sugar cane. Working on the single-use-assortment made out of more sustainable materials is well in line with METRO’s Single Use Plastic Policy and strongly contributes to reduce plastic pollution.
Customer benefit
- Less plastic waste to dispose.
- Easy adaption to a more sustainable lifestyle.
- Sustainable branding for their own businesses.
Our contribution
- Delivering sustainable assortment to our customers.
- Pioneering in markets partly not yet mature in this assortment.
- Positive contribution to the fight against plastic pollution.
SDGs
Brief description
Next to other more sustainable packaging targets it is also METRO’s goal to ban all expanded polystyrene (EPS) in own brand products packaging on all packaging levels (primary, secondary and tertiary) by 2023. Its environmental impact is negative especially with regards to environmental pollution and respective danger for animals picking up waste of EPS in nature mistakenly as food. In 2019/20, 12 METRO countries and our common sourcing offices all contributed to achieving this target. 60 own brand packagings – that is almost 50% of the total number of products potentially containing EPS packaging – have already made this step to a more sustainable alternative. METRO Hungary for example changed their apple trays formerly made from EPS to cardboard.
Customer benefit
- Less plastic waste to dispose.
- Easy adaption to a more sustainable lifestyle.
- Sustainable branding for their own businesses.
Our contribution
- Delivering sustainable assortment to our customers.
- Positive contribution to the fight against environmental pollution.
SDGs
Read more about our targets.
Brief description
In METRO Ukraine where there are increasing numbers of environmentally conscious citizens but no waste sorting scheme on national level, local partnership and action is making a real impact in addressing the problem. Working closely with a private partner, we introduced waste collection points in all 10 METRO stores. One store even has a recycling expert helping the users to separate properly and explaining what can and cannot be recycled. Role model Ukraine is not alone though in this endeavor: Also, METRO Kazakhstan, France, Romania and others have waste collection points at their stores.
Customer benefit
- Customers potentially save costs of their businesses waste disposal.
- Customers can contribute visibly in solving a local problem.
Our contribution
- Setting up a waste sorting scheme on a national level in Ukraine where none existed before.
- Diverting waste from landfill.
- Preventing unrecycled waste plastic.
SDGs
Read more at MPULSE.
Brief description
In an effort to reduce the use to plastic disposable cutlery, METRO Pakistan introduced a sustainable wooden assortment including wooden cutlery, cooking spoons, gadgets like a lemon squeezer but also other products like tissue boxes and tables. Also, many other countries and METRO sourcing office offer a great variety of products from alternative materials such as bagasse, bamboo or sugar cane. Working on the single-use-assortment made out of more sustainable materials is well in line with METRO’s Single Use Plastic Policy and strongly contributes to reduce plastic pollution.
Customer benefit
- Less plastic waste to dispose.
- Easy adaption to a more sustainable lifestyle.
- Sustainable branding for their own businesses.
Our contribution
- Delivering sustainable assortment to our customers.
- Pioneering in markets partly not yet mature in this assortment.
- Positive contribution to the fight against plastic pollution.
SDGs
Brief description
Next to other more sustainable packaging targets it is also METRO’s goal to ban all expanded polystyrene (EPS) in own brand products packaging on all packaging levels (primary, secondary and tertiary) by 2023. Its environmental impact is negative especially with regards to environmental pollution and respective danger for animals picking up waste of EPS in nature mistakenly as food. In 2019/20, 12 METRO countries and our common sourcing offices all contributed to achieving this target. 60 own brand packagings – that is almost 50% of the total number of products potentially containing EPS packaging – have already made this step to a more sustainable alternative. METRO Hungary for example changed their apple trays formerly made from EPS to cardboard.
Customer benefit
- Less plastic waste to dispose.
- Easy adaption to a more sustainable lifestyle.
- Sustainable branding for their own businesses.
Our contribution
- Delivering sustainable assortment to our customers.
- Positive contribution to the fight against environmental pollution.
SDGs
Read more about our targets.
raw-material-sourcing
Championing our customers by driving change in sustainable Raw Material Sourcing
METRO incorporates tradition and modernity, expertise and ideas into innovations and alliances for sustainable food production. It is only through the interaction and collaboration of producers, suppliers, retailers and customers that we can find answers to today’s and tomorrow’s questions and challenges.
Read more at METRO Responsibility.
Brief description
Soy, palm oil and paper and wood in general are widely used commodities and critical drivers for climate change, loss of biodiversity and impacting social standards of local people. You find soy and palm oil as ingredient in many products we sell at METRO (oils, soap, sauces, detergents etc.) and soy is also used as animal feed. As part of our Sustainable Procurement Policies, METRO has e.g. joined forces with other companies in The Consumer Goods Forum Forest Positive Coalition of Action Soy Working Group to work towards sustainable, zero deforestation.
Customer benefit
- Offering their customers more sustainable assortment not contributing to deforestation.
Our contribution
- Enabling and leveraging sustainable resource management.
SDGs
Read more at MPULSE.
Brief description
METRO together with its customers in 22 countries and 18 global suppliers are in their 2nd year of its 3-year collaboration with the Canadian-based One Drop Foundation. The project aims at providing permanent access to safe water and sanitation to half a million people in India. Access to water is crucial just like being trained to manage water in a sustainable way – especially for rural farmers. Our stores in India are also committed to sustainable water management and have installed rainwater collection systems and sewage treatment plants in all stores so that, for example, they can use this treated water for their refrigeration condenser systems in the future.
Customer benefit
- Enabling and leveraging sustainable water management.
- Customers can contribute visibly in solving a local problem.
Our contribution
- Enabling and leveraging sustainable water management.
SDGs
Read more at MPULSE.
Brief description
Japan appears to be a “fish country” in many ways, but the market for sustainably caught or farmed fish products is still very challenging. METRO Japan’s “Sustainable Fish Initiative”, an environmentally and market friendly approach, deepens and integrates overall sustainability goals in the fish category through partnerships with suppliers and drives corresponding marketing to customers to promote market orientation towards sustainable fish and marine products.
Customer benefit
- Offering a sustainable fish range to its customers.
- Leading the way in a market that is still developing.
Our contribution
- Enables and promotes sustainable resource management specifically in the area of fish.
SDGs
Brief description
Soy, palm oil and paper and wood in general are widely used commodities and critical drivers for climate change, loss of biodiversity and impacting social standards of local people. You find soy and palm oil as ingredient in many products we sell at METRO (oils, soap, sauces, detergents etc.) and soy is also used as animal feed. As part of our Sustainable Procurement Policies, METRO has e.g. joined forces with other companies in The Consumer Goods Forum Forest Positive Coalition of Action Soy Working Group to work towards sustainable, zero deforestation.
Customer benefit
- Offering their customers more sustainable assortment not contributing to deforestation.
Our contribution
- Enabling and leveraging sustainable resource management.
SDGs
Read more at MPULSE.
Brief description
METRO together with its customers in 22 countries and 18 global suppliers are in their 2nd year of its 3-year collaboration with the Canadian-based One Drop Foundation. The project aims at providing permanent access to safe water and sanitation to half a million people in India. Access to water is crucial just like being trained to manage water in a sustainable way – especially for rural farmers. Our stores in India are also committed to sustainable water management and have installed rainwater collection systems and sewage treatment plants in all stores so that, for example, they can use this treated water for their refrigeration condenser systems in the future.
Customer benefit
- Enabling and leveraging sustainable water management.
- Customers can contribute visibly in solving a local problem.
Our contribution
- Enabling and leveraging sustainable water management.
SDGs
Read more at MPULSE.
Brief description
Japan appears to be a “fish country” in many ways, but the market for sustainably caught or farmed fish products is still very challenging. METRO Japan’s “Sustainable Fish Initiative”, an environmentally and market friendly approach, deepens and integrates overall sustainability goals in the fish category through partnerships with suppliers and drives corresponding marketing to customers to promote market orientation towards sustainable fish and marine products.
Customer benefit
- Offering a sustainable fish range to its customers.
- Leading the way in a market that is still developing.
Our contribution
- Enables and promotes sustainable resource management specifically in the area of fish.
SDGs
diversity-inclusion
Championing our customers by advocating Diversity and Inclusion
Diversity and Inclusion are essential for being true to our culture. They are key ingredients to lead a sustainable business and are a success driver to uncover new business opportunities. METRO promotes a diverse and inclusive environment and workforce that reflect our customers’ and business partners’ variety in order to make full use of talents and potential. That is how we can serve our customers best.
Read more at METRO Responsibility.
Brief description
In fiscal year 2019/20, METRO France received the GEEIS-Diversity label (Gender equality European & International Standard) for its commitment to promoting equality and diversity. The label recognizes companies that implement equal opportunities, diversity and inclusion within the organization. To this end, the company was audited and certified by the Arborus Foundation in accordance with the GEEIS standard with regard to the implementation of appropriate management, training and communication tools.
Customer benefit
- An environment characterized by equal opportunities, diversity and inclusion also reflects the diverse needs of customers and appeals to them.
- High employee satisfaction is a factor for customer satisfaction.
Our contribution
- Promoting equal opportunities, diversity and inclusion.
SDGs
Brief description
Founded in 2014, the METRO PRIDE employee network for lesbians, gays, bisexuals, transsexuals and intersexuals aims to raise awareness of the issues of sexual orientation and identity and to ensure greater openness, exchange and visibility. Together with PROUT-AT-WORK and 12 other companies, the network published a position paper on easing discriminatory restrictions on blood donations by homosexuals, bisexual men and trans* persons and was awarded the BIG IMPACT INITIATIVE award by PROUT AT WORK for this initiative.
Customer benefit
- Advocating for such issues and dealing with topics of social concern can strengthen trust in METRO as a business partner.
Our contribution
- Exemplifying an inclusive approach, free from discrimination.
SDGs
Read more on MPULSE.
Brief description
METRO has set itself new targets. By September 2025, METRO AG aims to have 25% women in the 1st management level below the Management Board and 40% in the 2nd management level below the Management Board. In addition, we have again voluntarily set a target for the share of women in management positions in our wholesale business. According to this target, the proportion of women in management positions at levels 1 to 3 (including store managers) is to be 30% worldwide by September 2025. Pakistan supports this target in its markets, for example with a special development program for female managers. In order to receive impulses from outside on how to further improve the promotion of women in the company, METRO has joined the amfori-UN Women WEPs Activator at the international level. The initiative of the Global business association amfori and UN Women aims to contribute to gender equality and the advancement of women by sharing knowledge and providing access to training.
Customer benefit
- Diversity within the management positions of our store employees can offer customers greater service quality.
Our contribution
- Diversity in management positions sets an example.
SDGs
Brief description
In fiscal year 2019/20, METRO France received the GEEIS-Diversity label (Gender equality European & International Standard) for its commitment to promoting equality and diversity. The label recognizes companies that implement equal opportunities, diversity and inclusion within the organization. To this end, the company was audited and certified by the Arborus Foundation in accordance with the GEEIS standard with regard to the implementation of appropriate management, training and communication tools.
Customer benefit
- An environment characterized by equal opportunities, diversity and inclusion also reflects the diverse needs of customers and appeals to them.
- High employee satisfaction is a factor for customer satisfaction.
Our contribution
- Promoting equal opportunities, diversity and inclusion.
SDGs
Brief description
Founded in 2014, the METRO PRIDE employee network for lesbians, gays, bisexuals, transsexuals and intersexuals aims to raise awareness of the issues of sexual orientation and identity and to ensure greater openness, exchange and visibility. Together with PROUT-AT-WORK and 12 other companies, the network published a position paper on easing discriminatory restrictions on blood donations by homosexuals, bisexual men and trans* persons and was awarded the BIG IMPACT INITIATIVE award by PROUT AT WORK for this initiative.
Customer benefit
- Advocating for such issues and dealing with topics of social concern can strengthen trust in METRO as a business partner.
Our contribution
- Exemplifying an inclusive approach, free from discrimination.
SDGs
Read more on MPULSE.
Brief description
METRO has set itself new targets. By September 2025, METRO AG aims to have 25% women in the 1st management level below the Management Board and 40% in the 2nd management level below the Management Board. In addition, we have again voluntarily set a target for the share of women in management positions in our wholesale business. According to this target, the proportion of women in management positions at levels 1 to 3 (including store managers) is to be 30% worldwide by September 2025. Pakistan supports this target in its markets, for example with a special development program for female managers. In order to receive impulses from outside on how to further improve the promotion of women in the company, METRO has joined the amfori-UN Women WEPs Activator at the international level. The initiative of the Global business association amfori and UN Women aims to contribute to gender equality and the advancement of women by sharing knowledge and providing access to training.
Customer benefit
- Diversity within the management positions of our store employees can offer customers greater service quality.
Our contribution
- Diversity in management positions sets an example.
SDGs