Tesco on Mission to Cut Down Food Waste

Tesco, the UK’s largest supermarket chain, is set to launch a trial programme to give away expiring food for free at the end of the day. The initiative, aimed at reducing food waste, will be implemented in select Tesco Express stores over the coming months, according to a BBC report.

Under this scheme, Tesco will offer its already discounted “yellow sticker” items—products nearing their expiry date—for free after 9.30 pm (local time). However, these items will be made available to charities and store employees first before being offered to customers.

“This trial will allow customers to take any remaining yellow-stickered items for free at the end of the day, after they have been offered to charities and colleagues,” a Tesco spokesperson said.

Food Waste Reduction

With a 27.8% market share, Tesco operates 3,700 stores in the UK and 750 abroad. Alongside other supermarket chains, it has pledged to cut food waste by 50% by 2030. Presently, the retailer chain donates surplus food to charities and food banks, providing millions of meals each month. Previously, yellow-sticker items were sold at discounts of up to 90%, but the new trial takes a more radical approach to prevent waste.

The company has also made significant strides in sustainability, achieving a 61% reduction in emissions from its operations compared to 2015 levels—surpassing its 2025 target of 60%. This was accomplished through energy efficiency improvements and 100% renewable electricity across its stores.

High Cost of Living

The move comes as Britain faces a deepening cost-of-living crisis, with a surge in demand for discounted groceries. A Barclays analysis found that nearly two-thirds of UK households purchased discounted products in 2023. Additionally, the Trussell Trust food bank reported that over 1.4 million new users have sought food assistance in the past two years.

With food insecurity on the rise, Tesco’s initiative could provide some newsrelief to struggling households while reinforcing its commitment to sustainability and waste reduction. If successful, the trial may expand to more locations in the future.