Sustainability in Retail: What’s Next?

German supermarkets recently gathered in Berlin to discuss a study on their sustainability performance, highlighting the urgent need for change in the retail sector. Retailers acknowledged the importance of their gatekeeper role in the supply chain and emphasized the need for standardized measurement of plant-to-animal protein ratios in supermarket offerings. The discussion at the symposium focused on promoting pulses and targeting flexitarian consumers as key areas for immediate action.

A new analysis by Quantis and Madre Brava found that shifting 30% of meat and milk sales to plant-based alternatives by 2030 could reduce emissions by 16 million tonnes CO2-equivalent and save €2.5 billion. This shift aligns with dietary guidelines and consumer trends, with experts highlighting the need for retailers to align with policy and industry standards. Calls were made for sustained efforts from retailers, policymakers, and NGOs to push forward with sustainability initiatives, emphasizing the importance of setting clear protein targets and enabling consumer shifts through pricing and product placement to achieve emission reduction and cost savings.