The Raley’s Companies has rolled out a new food recovery program across its 118 grocery stores in California and Nevada, partnering with circular economy firm Divert to reduce waste and fight hunger.
Through Divert’s IoT platform, combined with training sessions and walkthroughs conducted with Feeding America’s local food bank network, every Raley’s location is now able to identify and redirect surplus food.
Items suitable for donation are passed along to people in need, while unsellable food is sent to Divert’s Integrated Diversion & Energy Facility in Turlock, California, where it is converted into carbon-negative renewable energy and nutrient-rich soil amendments.
The collaboration has already expanded Raley’s donation guidelines, allowing more fresh food to be rescued from shelves and reaching a wider base of food-insecure households.
“Raley’s has long been committed to using resources responsibly and supporting our neighbors when they need it most,” said Natalie Slatter, VP of operations at Raley’s.
“Our relationship with Divert is nourishing our communities, our planet, and helping our customers live happier, healthier lives. We’re thrilled to be making this announcement during Hunger Action Month and look forward to the continued positive impact of Raley’s donation programs.”
Divert, which works with more than 2,000 retail sites in California and plans further expansion in the state, said the partnership demonstrates how grocery retailers can go beyond simply keeping waste out of landfills.
“Our work together is demonstrating the tremendous opportunity retailers have to go beyond landfill diversion alone and further reduce waste by uncovering donation opportunities that benefit the local community,” said Ben Kuethe Oaks, VP and GM of retail at Divert.
Founded in 1935, West Sacramento-based Raley’s operates four banners: Raley’s, Bel Air Markets, Nob Hill Foods, and Raley’s O-N-E Market.
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