This year SPAR is putting a focus on ice cream made in Austria. What is special about the 24 ice cream flavours which are included in the SPAR PREMIUM, SPAR Natur*pur, SPAR Vital and SPAR Veggie range is that they all are produced in the ice cream factory Valentino in Styria. Also the ingredients used mostly originate from Austrian organic farming. In close cooperation with local ice cream experts, Johanna Maier and Josef Zotter, recipes for SPAR Premium ice cream have been created.
In addition to award winning cook, Johanna Maier, Josef Zotter has also worked on the SPAR PREMIUM ice creams. The six SPAR PREMIUM Edition Zotter ice cream flavours are refined with chocolates from the chocolatier. For the production of SPAR Natur*Pur ice cream, only ingredients from Austrian organic agriculture is used.
Sweetened with Stevia sweetener and vegan ice cream
The SPAR Vital ice cream which is sweetened with Stevia sweetener, promises full enjoyment despite the absence of sugar. The products contain 40% less calories than regular ice cream. New on the ice cream market are the vegan fruity ice cream flavours of the new private label brand SPAR Veggie. All of these ice creams are produced completely free of animal ingredients such as milk, gelatin and other animal binding agents. All ice cream variations are available in SPAR, EUROSPAR and INTERSPAR stores in Austria.
Salad from the earth to the earth
SPAR is committed to our environment, not only when it comes to its climate protection stores. Just in time for the salad season, SPAR offers exclusvie regional salads from humus cultivation, produced in Styria. Salad is increasingly grown in hydroponic cultures; instead of topsoil a substrate provides the nutrients. SPAR offers a climate friendly alternative to this procedure: From now on six different types of lettuce grown on native humus soils will be sold in all SPAR, EUROSPAR and INTERSPAR stores.
"SPAR has always been attached to regional suppliers, especially in the area of fruit and vegetables we try to cover the needs with products from the region", explains Christoph Holzer, Managing Director SPAR Styria. With the humus lettuce from the Graz region we go one step further and offer our customers a delicious and healthy way to take an active part in climate protection."
Humus formation increases the CO2 storage capacity of the soil. In a year up to 50 tonnes of CO2 per hectare can be bound. Agriculture areas under cultivation and products grown on it relieve the climate. Furthermore the soil becomes healthier as well as more fertile and productive by humus.
SPAR stores consistently save CO2 through the use of LED lighting, photovoltaics, hydropower and much more.
Introducing vegetarian private label brand 'SPAR Veggie' into the Swiss market
SPAR Veggie - Tofu
SPAR Veggie - Ice cream
More and more Swiss consumers are consciously making the decision to reduce their meat consumption and have one or two meat-free days each week. Motivations to purchase the alternatives available are different but all have one thing in common: it must be delicious to eat. The 20 products in the new SPAR private label range, SPAR Veggie, meet this demand and are also both easy and quick to prepare. All products are marked with the V-label of the European Vegetarian Union.
Environmentally conscious living
Some years ago people renouncing the consumption of meat were called 'granivores', today vegetarian food is an expression of a conscious and healthy lifestyle. After all, everyone who eats less meat on a regular basis automatically consumes more fruit and vegetables as well as grain products. Consuming more plant-based food not only affects our health in a positive way but also the environment and the climate. SPAR Veggie is therefore the perfect product line for all flexitarians and full vegetarians. The majority of the SPAR Veggie range products originates from certified organic agriculture, the products are produced in Austria.
Healthy living
The 20 delicious SPAR Veggie creations ensure variety on the table. The products are easy and quick to prepare and are therefore ideal to integrate into a fast paced daily routine. Despite their Convenience nature, the products support a healthy, low-cholesterol diet. All products are chilled or frozen. The taste convinces even the most demanding connoisseurs.
Organic living
The ingredients for vegetable topping in the flavours vegetables, tomato-basil, carrot or hummus (chickpea and sesame seeds) also originate from certified organic agriculture. The toppings go with fresh bread and crispy pepperoni, juicy tomatoes or watercress or can be added to homemade sauces.
Vegetarians can rely on specific protein sources, often called ‘meat substitutes’. In addition to various proteins, SPAR Veggie products contain many other healthy substances as vitamins, iron and calcium. Vegetarian balls, Cordon Bleu, roasted strips, Veggie grill and cold cuts prove that a meatless meal is a real meal. These meals actually come from the meat kitchen but were turned into vegetarian meals through the use of high quality soy products.
Certified living
For easy orientation, all SPAR Veggie products are marked with the official V-label of the European Vegetarian Union. This certification is recognized across the EU and ensures that the strict requirements are complied with regardless of independent inspections. Furthermore, the label provides the guarantee that the product does not contain meat ingredients.
In addition to the previously launched and successful SPAR Vital range, the new SPAR Veggie range is a welcome addition to the innovative SPAR private label world. The modern packaging design attracts the customers’ attention in the shelves. The fresh colours of apple green and charcoal grey contribute to high recognition and enhance the strong brand identity.
Real ales from Shepherd Neame and wines, ciders and fruit juices from Biddenden Vineyards
We really want to make this day a success. We’ve always heavily backed local foods and want to show everyone just what’s on offer in the local area
Store owner Paul Hudson
SPAR Seasalter hosted a tasting day to celebrate all that is great about local food.
It took place on 14th April 2012, a wide variety of locally produced products were be available including condiments from the Whitstable Pickle Company, handmade fudge, jams and chutneys from Jemima’s Kitchen, real ales from Shepherd Neame and wines, ciders and fruit juices from Biddenden Vineyards.
Award-winning specialist English cheese from C W Parker & Son were also be on sale, as well as the company’s fantastic range of Kentish meats and sausages. The store also stocks Q Award-winning ice creams from Taywell.
To mark the event the store handed out wicker baskets filled with samples to 500 homes in the surrounding area.
A strong supporter of the local community, the store is also known for its fundraising. Last year, notable donations included £2,000 to a local boxing club and £1,250 to a young athlete heading to the 2012 Paralympics.
Store owner Paul Hudson said: "We really want to make this day a success. We’ve always heavily backed local foods and want to show everyone just what’s on offer in the local area.
"We hope as many people as possible will come along and enjoy the day."
SPAR is delighted to once again be supporting the Balmoral Show as a platinum sponsor. The Balmoral Show is a fantastic platform for local producers and enables them to showcase their latest innovations to the marketplace. It also allows long-standing organisations the chance to highlight their consistent and enduring level of quality
Paddy Doody, Sales and Marketing Director at Henderson Wholesale (SPAR)
SPAR has once again renewed its Platinum sponsorship of the Balmoral Show, underlining its commitment and support of the agricultural sector and local suppliers.
Paddy Doody, Sales and Marketing Director at Henderson Wholesale (SPAR) said: "SPAR is delighted to once again be supporting the Balmoral Show as a platinum sponsor. The Balmoral Show is a fantastic platform for local producers and enables them to showcase their latest innovations to the marketplace. It also allows long-standing organisations the chance to highlight their consistent and enduring level of quality."
SPAR, which recently celebrated its 50th year in Northern Ireland serving local communities, has been a firm supporter of local suppliers and producers throughout this time and as a Group, our key focus for 2012 is to continue to grow our fresh local produce credentials. We already work extremely close with local suppliers across Northern Ireland and actively promote their products across our stores. In fact, over 75% of our fresh products sold through the Henderson Group are produced, packed and distributed on the Island of Ireland.
"Given the current economic climate, it now more than ever, vital we invest in local farmers, suppliers and communities, in order to harness innovation and excellence within Northern Ireland."
Colin McDonald, RUAS Chief Executive, said, "It is very encouraging that Henderson Wholesale have continued their sponsorship for a second year. This demonstrates how highly respected the Show is and the value they put on their relationship with it. We want to thank them for their dedication and support which is extremely important to the success of the Show. "
The Balmoral Show in partnership with Ulster Bank runs from 16th – 18th May 2012 and is open from 8.30am – 8.00pm daily.
We want to re-discover old varieties, preserve them and bring them closer to our customers. In the end we need to build on our heritage.
Dr. Gerhard Drexel, CEO of SPAR Austria
SPAR Austria and Arche Noah (Noah's Ark), an heirloom seed savers association, are collaborating on the protection and survival of crop diversity by revitalising rare heritage organic fruit and vegetables.
SPAR has introduced ten organic seeds from Austrian agriculture to its private label brand SPAR wie früher (SPAR as before), thus meeting the increasing demand for heirloom seed varieties as well as regional products.
The industrialisation of agriculture and seed monopolies has contributed to the loss of about 75% of all crop species in the past 100 years worldwide according to estimations by the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations. Genetic engineering and climate change account for the remainder.
Drexel: "Building on our heritage"
For SPAR the revival and preservation of crop varieties has been a major concern for many years. "In Arche Noah we have found the ideal partner to share our passion for forgotten plants and seeds," says Dr. Gerhard Drexel, CEO of SPAR Austria. "We want to rediscover old varieties, preserve them and bring them closer to our customers. In the end we need to build on our heritage."
Ten organic heritage seeds for "SPAR wie früher"
SPAR Austria has added ten heirloom organic seeds to the SPAR wie früher range in association with Arche Noah. The seed range includes:
organic cucumber 'Dekan'
organic pepper 'Ochsenhorn'
organic pepper 'Roter Augsburger'
organic tomato 'Naama'
organic lettuce 'Roter Butterhäuptl'
organic tomato 'Justens Gelbe'
The varieties are available in SPAR, EUROSPAR and INTERSPAR stores. All seeds come from 100% Austrian organic farming and cost around €2.99.
We are benefitting rural employment and in turn the rural economy
Edenmill Farm's Mark Gibson
We specialise in a lot of unique products and Bacon Jam just added to the range
James Brundle, SPAR Walthamstow
The use of local suppliers adds to uniqueness of the product range as well as supporting local businesses and employment. We showcase some examples from the UK here.
SPAR Drymen - local butchers
SPAR Drymen is one of three stores in Scotland that has joined forces with a local butcher in a move to help offer shoppers the best possible produce from local suppliers.
Edenmill Farm's Mark Gibson said: "I'm delighted that in working locally with SPAR we are accomplishing our belief that food should be from farm to plate in less than 50 miles.
"In addition, by getting local produce into local shops we are benefitting rural employment and in turn the rural economy."
SPAR Walthamstow - Bacon Jam
James Brundle of SPAR Walthamstow and Chris O'Connor who runs Eat 17 restaurant next door to the shop, have developed an exciting new product in the form of Bacon Jam.
James, who won Convenience Retailer of the Year 2011, and Chris first came up with the idea while working in Eat 17.
James said: "Our restaurant is famous for its burgers and we always used a bacon and onion marmalade as a topping on them. We took this and developed it and the end product was Bacon Jam.
"We started serving it in the restaurant and it went down really well. People kept asking for a jar to take home with them. We thought that something could come of it, so we sold it in the shop one night and it went really fast.
Made with 97% Denhay Dorset Bacon, other ingredients include balsamic vinegar, coffee and bourbon whiskey. "We have labelled it as a relish," said James. "It's really versatile and goes really well with many different meats."
"It seems to be getting extremely popular extremely quickly," said James. "It was only launched six months ago but it has already received a fantastic amount of attention."
They are a real healthy alternative if you want to quickly serve something
Gwyneth Paltrow
More and more people are consciously deciding to reduce their meat consumption and have one or two meat-free days each week. For these so-called flexitarians or semi-vegetarians SPAR Austria with the help of Gwyneth Paltrow have launched a new private label range SPAR Veggie which offers 43 vegetarian and vegan products.
Reducing meat consumption
Studies show that Austria is one of the leading European consumers of meat with a consumption of 75kg meat per head per year1. More and more people are consciously deciding to reduce their meat consumption and have one or two meat-free days each week. For full vegetarians as well as flexitarians or semi-vegetarians the private label range SPAR Veggie is ideal. The range offers 43 vegetarian and vegan products; mostly chilled and frozen convenience products which are easy and quick to prepare.
From certified organic agriculture
SPAR Veggie is aimed at those who not only want to eat healthily but also focus on plant based food for the sake of the environment and the climate. More than 80% of the entire SPAR Veggie range is produced in Austria, more than 70% comes from certified organic agriculture. All products are marked with the V-label of the European Vegetarian Union.
Paltrow: “I am a passionate cook for my family” Gwyneth Paltrow is the promotional face of SPAR Veggie.
When the mother of two children is not acting, she likes to “wield the wooden spoon”. Paltrow, who recently published a cookbook, is a passionate hobby cook. “My favourite activity is to cook for my family,” revealed the 39 year old actress during the filming of the new SPAR Veggie TV commercial in Paris.
The Hollywood star is a “flexitarian”
With its 43 vegetarian and vegan products available in all Austrian SPAR, EUROSPAR and INTERSPAR stores, the new range not only appeals to vegetarians. Gwyneth Paltrow tasted some SPAR Veggie products during the shooting breaks. “They are a real healthy alternative if you want to quickly serve something,” said Paltrow enthusiastically.
Dr Drexel: “She lives the idea of SPAR Veggie”
“Gwyneth Paltrow credibly embodies today’s modern and health conscious woman, integrating meat-less dishes into her lifestyle, not every day but every now and then,” explains Dr. Gerhard Drexel, President of SPAR Austria. “She lives the idea behind our new product line,” continues Dr Drexel. “As you would expect from a Hollywood star, the cooperation has been extremely pleasant and very professional,” said Dr. Gerhard Fritsch, Marketing Manager of SPAR Austria.
SPAR advertising based on cult and star principle
For many years, SPAR has been applying the cult and star principle for advertising campaigns of private label brands and attracted superstars as promotional icons. Gwyneth Paltrow joins the long list of celebrities acting as a testimonial for SPAR: First and foremost TV star and host of the TV show Dancing Stars, Mirjam Weichselbraun, who is the face of SPAR Natur*pur and SPAR Vital.
Innovative products for the first time in Austria
With innovative vegetarian creations such as organic Veggie roasted strips, Veggie grill or Veggie organic toppings, SPAR is not only ensuring variety on the table but also working on providing a varied and healthy diet. About 50% of the SPAR Veggie products are genuine innovations and thus available for the first time in Austria. The comparable branded products in supermarkets are on average 1/3 more expensive and products from health food stores are up to 50% more expensive than SPAR Veggie private label brands.
Dr Drexel: “Expression of a health conscious lifestyle”
“We are proud that we have again succeeded in meeting the requirements of today’s consumers at exactly the right time with a really innovative private label range,” says a delighted President Dr. Gerhard Drexel. “Some years ago people renouncing the consumption of meat were called 'granivores', today vegetarian food is an expression of a conscious and healthy lifestyle. This was a clear reversal of a trend,” says Dr Drexel about the reasons for the introduction of the new product line. After the healthy private label brands SPAR Vital and SPAR free from, SPAR Veggie is a welcome addition to the innovative SPAR private label world.
1. Statistics of agriculture, Statistics Austria, Vienna 2011
As Austria’s main fish trader, we have decided to list our goals and intentions in a manifesto that informs our customers about what they can expect when buying fish at INTERSPAR stores
INTERSPAR Managing Director Markus Kaser
CJ Lang & Son Ltd in Scotland has encouraged all of its 108 company-owned stores and a selection of its independent retailers to participate in the Scottish Government's 'Healthy Living Initiative'
The initiative is designed to ensure that independent convenience retailers are actively promoting the consumption of healthier options to its shoppers. The participating stores will highlight the initiative in store and identify to shoppers the products that are within the 'Healthy Living' product criteria.
By doing so, it is the intention to educate shoppers on products that are perhaps considered by some as healthy, but due to the salt and saturated fat content they are actually not within the 'Healthy Living' product criteria.
Fresh fruit and vegetables are the obvious healthy choices as is non-flavoured water, semi skimmed, skimmed and 1% milk, 100% fruit juice and either fresh, frozen or canned oily fish but excluding canned tuna.
As Austria’s main fish trader, we have decided to list our goals and intentions in a manifesto that informs our customers about what they can expect when buying fish at INTERSPAR stores
INTERSPAR Managing Director Markus Kaser
With its high content of protein and omega 3 fatty acids, fish is important for a healthy and balanced diet. But there are big differences in the quality of the fish as well as in their sustainability, which is why it is important to pay attention to freshness and origin. INTERSPAR has summarised the main aspects in Austria’s first fish manifesto, developed in cooperation with WWF Austria. "As Austria’s main fish trader, we have decided to list our goals and intentions in a manifesto that informs our customers about what they can expect when buying fish at INTERSPAR stores", says INTERSPAR Managing Director Markus Kaser.
Additional information about the co-operation between WWF and SPAR Austria can be read on the SPAR Austria website: www.spar.at/zeichensetzen.
The INTERSPAR fish manifesto
Up to 200 species of fish and seafood
Whitefish, salmon, mussels or shrimp – you will find a large variety of fish and seafood at our fish counter. Our stores offer more than 50 varieties of fresh fish, smoked fish and seafood.
Fresh fish guaranteed
We guarantee 100% freshness of our fish and seafood. This is ensured by passing every product through a strictly controlled cooling and freezing chain.
Fish from local waters
Incomparably fresh and incomparably environmentally friendly. From char to brown trout – you will find a wide assortment of fish from local waters in our stores. In this way, we not only strengthen the regional economy but also protect the environment due to short transport distances.
Fair to the sea - Enjoy sustainable fish
In our stores you can buy fish with a clear conscience. Thanks to the partnership with WWF, our fish and seafood originate more and more from sustainable sources. We work closely with organic fish farms and MSC certified fisheries preventing overfishing, damage to the eco system and minimising unwanted by-catch.
Service from trained fish experts
Just ask! Our employees are trained at our internal fish Academy. We will be pleased to inform you about the fish species in our range and offer professionally filleted and portioned fish.
Best fish at the best price
We believe that fish should not cost a fortune so we try to offer the best price through the shortest possible transport routes and the sale of regional fish. This also has a positive impact on the environment.
22 healthy vending machines at 13 schools in Styria
Nutrition experts repeatedly point that schools offer unhealthy products to their students. In cooperation with SPAR retailer Thomas Pasemann, SPAR initiated a project for healthier snacks at schools ensuring that students have access to healthy snacks even when the school cafeteria is closed.
Thomas Pasemann, one of the largest operators of school cafeterias in Styria, introduced in addition to the traditional buffets also healthy vending machines in 13 schools in Graz. The machines are filled with around 45 healthy products: organic rice cakes, organic cereal bars, organic apple juice mixed with soda, organic pumpkin seeds, organic nuts and raisins from the SPAR Natur*pur brand as well as apple and carrot chips, pineapple and fruit cups from the Spar Vital range. In selecting the products, SPAR was supported by the scientific Medical Council.
Now students have access to healthy food from SPAR all day and the products are sold at a price that is one third cheaper than comparable products available at the school buffets.
"Healthy snacks matter a great deal to me. In SPAR I have found an excellent partner", says pioneer Pasemann.
The first vending machines with healthy snacks received very positive reactions from students.
SPAR Vital is the healthy private label brand from SPAR. Products from the SPAR Vital range are developed in close cooperation with nutrition experts Dr. Raimund Weitgasser and dietician Maria Anna Benedikt from the University Hospital of the Paracelsus Private Medical University. The products feature special nutritional values, medically tested recipes and a consumer friendly, innovative packaging and labelling concept. SPAR Vital is the product line for health conscious consumers.
Currently there are more than 130 SPAR Vital products available exclusively at SPAR, SPAR Gourmet, EUROSPAR and INTERSPAR stores.
SPAR Zimbabwe has recently proposed, wherever possible, to link SPAR label products with an initiative to support small to medium enterprises in their local communities.
Continental Beverages is one such enterprise. Owned and run by Isaiah and Primrose Chikuchichi, Continental Beverages manufacture a range of quality cordials.
The couple is grateful for the opportunity to produce for SPAR, which provides a guaranteed order and a formal retail channel through SPAR on a monthly basis.
From their humble production levels a year ago of about 1000 units a month, the firm can now produce 4000 cases (24,000 units) in a day.
From a SPAR perspective, this relationship falls in line with our philosophy of being close to our community and providing an opportunity where “all can benefit through mutual co-operation”.
SPAR Zimbabwe has developed four products through Continental Beverages: SPAR Orange Crush (a 50% orange crush); Savemor Orange Crush (20% orange crush); SaveMor Raspberry cordial and SaveMor Cream Soda cordial.
Netherlands: 100% sustainably produced coffee funds project in Zambia
SPAR Netherlands supermarkets offer a 100% sustainably produced coffee sourced from sustainably certificated farming organisations. The private label brand has been produced with attention to quality, employment conditions and the environment. The origin of the coffee can vary but it is guaranteed to be sourced from one of the UTZ, Rainforest Alliance or Fairtrade certificated bodies.
Sustainability In addition to improving the quality of the coffee, the employment conditions of the farmers and the environment by procuring only certificated coffee, SPAR has also adopted a project in one of the countries of origin: namely Zambia.
For every kilogram of SPAR 100% sustainable coffee sold, SPAR Netherlands will donate 5 cents directly to the project in the region of Monze, which is situated in the south of Zambia. Working together with a Dutch foundation established there, SPAR is building a new classroom for a school. It is intended that the project will be extended and that SPAR will continue to support the improvement of the circumstances of the residents of the village, in the same way that SPAR supermarkets in the Netherlands contribute to the overall environment of the villages and centres in which they are located.
Austria: SPAR and the World Wildlife Fund working together
As the biggest private employer in Austria and one of the largest local commercial enterprises, SPAR can change the ecological awareness of billions of consumers and 35,000 employees.
Hildegard Aichberger, WWF Managing Director
Campaign for climate protection and sustainable fishing
SPAR Austria has entered into large scale cooperation with the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) for climate protection and environmentally friendly products.
SPAR is the first Austrian food retailer to join the business platform called WWF Climate Group. In addition, SPAR will commit its entire range of fish and its purchasing policy to the strict tests of the WWF.
"As the biggest private employer in Austria and one of the largest local commercial enterprises, SPAR can change the ecological awareness of billions of consumers and 35,000 employees", says WWF Managing Director Hildegard Aichberger.
"SPAR has been a pioneer in the field of environmental friendliness. With this cooperation, our work will elevate to new levels, SPAR can continue to further expand its leading 'green' role in the Austrian food trade", says SPAR CEO Gerhard Drexel.
SPAR committed itself, as part of the WWF Climate Group, to reduce its operational CO2 emissions by 15% within three years. To achieve this goal, SPAR in cooperation with WWF, will create an annual action plan for the areas of energy consumption, renewable energy, transportation and logistics, product range and awareness. For example: SPAR will improve the settings of the refrigeration units in all existing SPAR stores. LED lighting and permanent energy analysis will be common as will the increased utilisation of electrical cars. Among many other sustainable activities, hundreds of public e-service stations for electrical bicycles and electric cars will be established.
With these steps, SPAR will further expand its pioneering role. In the year 2010, SPAR opened two climate supermarkets in Vienna and Murau. Moreover, SPAR Austria and its affiliates in ASPIAG already utilise video conferencing to decrease unnecessary travel and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. FSC paper bags and organic bags have been available in stores for a long time. For SPAR own label products, environmentally friendly packaging is used and the availability of regional products has increased. In future, the cooperation with WWF will enhance the environmental consciousness for employees and consumers linked to SPAR.
Furthermore, the fish purchasing policy against exploitation, which has already existed for several years, will be continuously improved. The WWF will conduct an analysis about SPAR's fish assortment and will delist overexploited marine species. Moreover, the sale of sustainably caught fish, organic farmed fish and MSC products will be expanded. "Our customers will buy and enjoy fish with a clear conscience", says Dr Drexel, whilst announcing that a broad informative campaign for customers and employees will be implemented and that some SPAR brands will be awarded with the WWF logo.
WWF Climate Group
Established in 2007, the enterprise platform WWF Climate Group is the largest privately owned climate protection initiative in Austria. The group of Austrian industry leaders and pioneers in climate change contains almost all areas. The eight members are namely: IKEA, Allianz, A1 Telecom United Kingdom, Pfanner, FRONIUS, Erste Group and SPAR. The companies are aiming to decrease their CO2 emissions by 15% within the next three years, to raise awareness among customers and employees and to support environmentally friendly offers and activities. Together, the members of the WWF Climate Group reach more than 75,000 employees and approximately 20 million customers.
Gerhard Drexel receives the Award from Norbert Lux, COO of the Green Brands Organisation and Friedrich Hinterberger, President of the SERI Institute for Sustainability and Chairman of the Green Brands Jury
The Green Brands Award honours all brands that are environmentally sustainable or produced in a sustainable way, thus earning national and international recognition. SPAR Austria was the first trading company in Austria to receive this award.
The procedure to be entered on the list of Green Brands is unique in the world and divided into three phases:
1. Nomination: A survey was carried out by market research institute synovate among the Austrian population . SPAR was nominated the best ‘green brand’ in the categories chain stores and food retailer.
2. Validation: SPAR underwent a complex and extensive testing procedure and passed with flying colours.
3. Jury: The final decision rests with the Green Brands jury, who awarded SPAR with the Green Brand Austria 2011/2012.
Dr. Gerhard Drexel, CEO of SPAR Austria, who received the Green Brands Austria 2011/2012 Award, said: "The Green Brand Award fully confirms the ongoing commitment to sustainability, climate and environmental protection at SPAR and motivates us to continue and improve this way."
Ireland: Model Melissa Magee nets the local fish range
Model Melissa Magee was on-hand to help SPAR, EUROSPAR and the VIVO brands reel in its latest catch
Fish is very nutritious. It is a good source of protein, low in saturated fat, and filled with omega-3 fatty acids which are good for the heart and brain. Given the increased awareness of these health benefits, the demand for seafood has steadily risen in recent years. Plus, more and more people are becoming better educated on the variety of meal solutions, as a result of using fish
Adrian Elmore, co-owner of Elmore Fish
Model Melissa Magee was on-hand to help SPAR, EUROSPAR and the VIVO brands reel in its latest catch, announcing the launch of the brands new fresh fish range. As part of its ongoing 'Famous for Fresh' strategy, the brands indentified an increasing demand for fresh fish in store; and after months of development, is delighted to introduce its new fish range.
As avid supporters of local suppliers, the fish will be supplied by local seafood business, Elmore Seafood. Elmore Seafood's is a family run business in its fourth generation and has been delivering fish since 1894. Brothers Adrian and Brian supply high quality fish of all types to restaurants, hotels and retail stores and are based in Dunmurry.
The range of products include: cod, whiting, salmon, trout, sea bass and fish pie mix.
Speaking about the launch, Adrian Elmore, co-owner of Elmore Fish said: "We are delighted that SPAR and EUROSPAR have chosen to stock our range of seafood in stores.
"Fish is very nutritious. It is a good source of protein, low in saturated fat, and filled with omega-3 fatty acids which are good for the heart and brain. Given the increased awareness of these health benefits, the demand for seafood has steadily risen in recent years. Plus, more and more people are becoming better educated on the variety of meal solutions, as a result of using fish.
"We are looking forward to building on this new partnership in the future."
Healey Martin, Fresh Foods Development Manager at the Henderson Group said: "We are delighted to celebrate the launch of our new range of seafood into our stores.
"Our policy is to support and encourage locally sourced produce and our new fresh fish range is a perfect example of our success so far. We hope that our shoppers enjoy our new range, which will add more choice to their weekly shop.
"We continually work hard to understand and deliver what our consumers want. We already offer a vast range of fresh produce in stores and these new fish lines are a welcomed addition. Our aim is to build on the range so that our stores will be the destination of choice for fresh fish."
The introduction of the new fish range will be supported with a full point of sale kit, instore recipe suggestions plus a full promotional programme.
Switzerland: New organic product line Schellen-Ursli
Schellen-Ursli Cheese
Schellen-Ursli Salami
Schellen-Ursli is the main character of one the most famous picture books in Switzerland read by many generations of mothers and grandfathers to their children. It is about a little boy living in the mountains of Graubünden. Schellen-Ursli knows the cows whose milk he is drinking and whose cheese he is eating. For all consumers who want to know where their food products come from, the new Schellen-Ursli product line from SPAR has been introduced. It stands for high quality culinary indulgence from the region of Graubünden, produced according to the strictest organic guidelines. Already, Bündnerfleisch, salami, Salzis sausages, cheese and milk are available in all SPAR and EUROSPAR stores whilst free range eggs will be added at the end of October.
Passion for food The little boy is the perfect ambassador for the new organic mountain product line from SPAR. Small, nature loving manufacturers produce the Schellen-Ursli range in the mountains. The carefully selected food products meet all established criteria, regulated and examined by Bio-Suisse, the federation of organic farmers with a common label for organic products. In addition to the origin of the product, SPAR attaches value to culinary enjoyment considering that in mass production, the flavour can be lost. Therefore, the Schellen-Ursli line is also a commitment to sophisticated, natural products with distinctive taste.
Carefully prepared natural products All SPAR and EUROSPAR stores now offer their customers Schellen-Ursli specialties from the mountains of Graubünden, two of which are milk products. The organic milk and the aromatic Lenzerheidner semi-hard cheese originate from Puracenter Lenzerheide, a co-operation of 17 farmers from the region. Milk can hardly be produced more sustainably, fresh from this village dairy. Thanks to innovative technologies, the fresh milk flows directly from the farmers to the Puracenter Dairy, situated in the valley, through a pipeline.
Traditionally produced specialties All Schellen-Ursli products are natural products, meeting high quality standards. Should nature be unable to supply a certain raw material in the required quality or quantity, the production volume of the manufacturer will vary. The Schellen-Ursli product line will be extended continuously in the coming weeks and months.
Regionalism is not just a slogan for SPAR, but our corporate philosophy. We are one of the main partners of domestic agriculture. In terms of apple competence, Styria is the number 1. Therefore we are really delighted to work together with more than 100 Styrian apple growers, delivering quality products!
Dr. Gerhard Drexel, CEO of SPAR Austria
This is made possible thanks to the apple cooperation between SPAR Austria, organic fruit wholesaler Frutura and Styria Tourism. The freshly picked, crisp ambassadors of Styria – Styrian apples – are available in all 1,500 SPAR stores in Austria. The launch of this campaign is designed to both stimulate the appetite with apple cooking courses and also holidays in Styria. SPAR expects to sell a total of around 100 million Styrian apples per year.
The promotion of recipes is being carried out by the Tourism Board. People are asked to submit their apple recipes to Frutura and have the opportunity to win an apple cooking course in Styria. The best recipes will be published in an apple recipe book which will be designed by SPAR Austria. Everyone whose recipe is used in the book gets their own complimentary copy.
Dr. Gerhard Drexel, CEO of SPAR Austria: "Regionalism is not just a slogan for SPAR, but our corporate philosophy. We are one of the main partners of domestic agriculture. In terms of apple competence, Styria is the number 1. Therefore we are really delighted to work together with more than 100 Styrian apple growers, delivering quality products!"
Manfred Hohensinner, Managing Director Frutura: "Our goal is to raise awareness for the natural beauty and integrity of Styria by selling Styrian apples to consumers. We aim to strengthen the value of this natural product in order to support our apple growers in their quest for quality and variety and therefore we guarantee fair prices."
Georg Bliem, Managing Director Styria Tourism: "As the apple is clearly associated with Styria, it is our goal to present Styria as the pleasure destination both nationally and internationally. In Austria, SPAR is the ideal partner for us due to their focus on regional products."
Switzerland: Protecting the oceans by only selling sustainably sourced fish
Sustainably fished tuna
Fish is by nature a good protein source and for a balanced diet, nutrition experts suggest including fish on the menu at least once a week. On the other hand, we are facing a situation of over fishing and endangered species. To be able to enjoy fish without any concerns, SPAR has extended its range of fish products sourced from sustainable fishing with the MSC label in the area of tinned fish. MSC (Marine Stewardship Council) was founded by the WWF (World Wide Fund for Nature) in 1997 and stands for sustainable and responsible fishing. MSC distinguishes sustainable fisheries avoiding overfishing, overcrowding the ocean and lake bed as well as the unintended fishing of other species, marine mammals or birds.
The SPAR tinned fish range with the MSC label comprises Herring filet, Sockeye salmon, wild salmon, hake, Bismarck herring, mackerel, tuna, rollmops as well as sardines. A large percentage of all tinned fish is labelled with the MSC logo. The aim is to achieve 100% of all tinned fish sold. Furthermore, SPAR Switzerland intends to broaden the fish offer from sustainable fishing in the frozen section.
Austria: Campaign for climate protection and sustainable fishing
As the biggest private employer in Austria and one of the largest local commercial enterprises, SPAR can change the ecological awareness of billions of consumers and 35,000 employees
WWF Managing Director Hildegard Aichberger
SPAR Austria has entered into a large-scale cooperation with the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) for climate protection and environmentally friendly products.
SPAR is the first Austrian food retailer to join the business platform called WWF CLIMATE GROUP. In addition, SPAR will commit its entire range of fish and its purchasing policy to the strict tests of the WWF.
“As the biggest private employer in Austria and one of the largest local commercial enterprises, SPAR can change the ecological awareness of billions of consumers and 35,000 employees”, says WWF Managing Director Hildegard Aichberger.
“SPAR has been a pioneer in the field of environmental friendliness. With this cooperation, our work will elevate to new levels, SPAR can continue to further expand its leading ‘green’ role in the Austrian food trade”, says SPAR CEO Gerhard Drexel.
SPAR committed itself, as part of the WWF CLIMATE GROUP, to reduce its operational CO2 emissions by 15% within three years. To achieve this goal, SPAR in cooperation with WWF, will create an annual action plan for the areas of energy consumption, renewable energy, transportation and logistics, product range and awareness. For example: SPAR will improve the settings of the refrigeration units in all existing SPAR stores. LED lighting and permanent energy analysis will be common as will the increased utilisation of electrical cars. Among many other sustainable activities, hundreds of public e-service stations for electrical bicycles and electric cars will be established.
With these steps, SPAR will further expand its pioneering role. In the year 2010, SPAR opened two climate supermarkets in Vienna and Murau. Moreover, SPAR Austria and its affiliates in ASPIAG already utilise video conferencing to decrease unnecessary travel and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. FSC paper bags and organic bags have been available in stores for a long time. For SPAR own label products, environmentally friendly packaging is used and the availability of regional products has increased. In future, the cooperation with WWF will enhance the environmental consciousness for employees and consumers linked to SPAR.
Furthermore, the fish purchasing policy against exploitation, which has already existed for several years, will be continuously improved. The WWF will conduct an analysis about SPAR’s fish assortment and will delist overexploited marine species. Moreover, the sale of sustainably caught fish, organic farmed fish and MSC products will be expanded. “Our customers will buy and enjoy fish with a clear conscience”, says Dr Drexel, whilst announcing that a broad informative campaign for customers and employees will be implemented and that some SPAR brands will be awarded with the WWF logo.
WWF CLIMATE GROUP
Established in 2007, the enterprise platform WWF CLIMATE GROUP is the largest privately owned climate protection initiative in Austria. The group of Austrian industry leaders and pioneers in climate change contains almost all areas. The eight members are namely: IKEA, Allianz, A1 Telecom United Kingdom, Pfanner, FRONIUS, Erste Group and SPAR. The companies are aiming to decrease their CO2 emissions by 15% within the next three years, to raise awareness among customers and employees and to support environmentally friendly offers and activities. Together, the members of the WWF CLIMATE GROUP reach more than 75,000 employees and approximately 20 million customers. For more information see www.climategroup.at
Switzerland: RegioFair at SPAR and EUROSPAR
About 1/3 of organic food comes from abroad; to counter this organic farmers in Central Switzerland founded RegioFair a year ago to strengthen the national offer, join forces and improve regional marketing. Since then, organic farmers from Central Switzerland market their products successfully under one corporate brand - RegioFair
Regional products remain very much in trend. Not only is this important in employment creation but consumer confidence in regional products remains high. As these products are produced organically, they also contribute significantly to the environment. RegioFair stands for regional and organic products which are available in EUROSPAR stores in Schattdorf and Strengelbach as well as in SPAR supermarkets in Nottwil, Emmen and Hünenberg.
About 1/3 of organic food comes from abroad; to counter this organic farmers in Central Switzerland founded RegioFair a year ago to strengthen the national offer, join forces and improve regional marketing. Since then, organic farmers from Central Switzerland market their products successfully under one corporate brand - RegioFair. An extensive offer of RegioFair products is available at several EUROSPAR and SPAR stores in Switzerland. These products reflect the growing demand for natural, healthy products. The range is very popular and regularly extended by innovative and sustainable products promising true delight. In order to convince customers of the high quality and the pure taste of the organic products, consumers are invited to tastings instore on a regular basis.
45 organic suppliers from Central Switzerland produce about 400 products for RegioFair varying from fruit and vegetables, dairy, eggs, meat, fish, bread, jams, pastries, cereals, drinks and additional specialties. RegioFair underlies the strict rules of 'Bio Suisse'. The products carry the 'Knopse' seal of approval. Transport routes are short and the organic food producers make a significant contribution to the environment. Additional information on RegioFair can be found under www.regiofair.ch.
UK: New products added to 'West Country' brand range
We are in a unique position to be able to develop a strong local brand that other multiple and symbol groups will find hard to replicate, and in doing so we are supporting the local economy, helping to protect the environment and providing quality products that customers will know and can trust
Appleby Westward, the regional distribution company for SPAR stores in the south west, has added two new products to its branded SPAR West Country range which was launched in the spring.
The company has introduced West Country Clotted Cream and an exclusive West Country Ale, Westward Gold, to its expanding range of locally sourced regional products.
Milk, eggs, meat, saffron cakes and buns, along with locally produced fruit and vegetables are already being marketed under the SPAR West Country banner. Appleby Westward has identified 20 additional categories in which to expand the regional brand, and is currently working on developing these.
The new West Country clotted cream is being supplied to Appleby Westward by Trewithen Dairy in Lostwithiel, and will be available in 114g tubs, retailing at £1 per pot.
Westward Gold ale is being produced by St. Austell Brewery and will be available in 500ml bottles, retailing at £1.79. It is a full-bodied pale ale, with a hint of a citrus aroma.
Donna Forward, Head of Fresh & Frozen Trading at Appleby Westward, said: "Both these products are great additions to the range and demonstrate our commitment and ability to source locally produced items of a very high quality".
SPAR's West Country regional products are grouped under a distinctive, eye-catching branded logo. Nigel Taylor, Appleby Westward's Trading Director, said: "The development of SPAR West Country as a brand reinforces our commitment to using local suppliers to provide customers with the best products that our region has to offer. Our region is famed for the quality of its local produce and SPAR customers hold local products in high regard. We are in a unique position to be able to develop a strong local brand that other multiple and symbol groups will find hard to replicate, and in doing so we are supporting the local economy, helping to protect the environment and providing quality products that customers will know and can trust."
He added: "We have the strength of a nationally recognised brand coupled with regional buying and knowledge. SPAR West Country gives our regional products their own identity that is unique to us."
Switzerland: New online service on traceability of eggs
SPAR Switzerland now provides customers via their website's homepage the possibility to trace eggs purchased at SPAR stores online. Every egg has a unique code, informing customers of the animal husbandry, the country of origin as well as the location of the producer.
SPAR offers an extensive range of eggs, varying from organic eggs, free range or barn eggs and eggs from the farm. Brown or white… all unboiled eggs have one thing in common: they have a code providing information about the origin. The quality of the eggs is strictly monitored.
From which farm does the egg come?
On the SPAR website a page on the traceability of Swiss eggs has been launched. Customers can enter the code on the egg and get information about the farm from which the egg originates and the way the chickens are kept and fed. Furthermore, the consumer receives relevant information on various ways of livestock keeping, storage and the nutritional value of eggs.
What does the code include?
The first number of the code gives information on the livestock keeping: 0 means organic eggs, 1 means free range eggs and 2 means barn eggs. Thereafter follows the country code. Eggs from Swiss producers have a CH. In addition to the country code, there is a number giving information about the producer.
Austria: Launch of 40 organic garden products
Just in time for the gardening season, SPAR is introducing 40 new organic garden products into the market. The range varies from organic seed and soil to organic vegetable plants. For vegetable fans and those with a desire for a snack, SPAR has included organic snack vegetables – which are seedlings or vegetable plants for the kitchen – already bearing fruit. Austria's favourite tv presenter Mirjam Weichselbraun is the brand ambassador.
The product range of 24 organic seeds comprises classical vegetable plants such as carrots, onions, leek and radish. The organic herbs vary from chive and parsley to basil which is from the Italian kitchen. In combination with organic salads such as lettuce 'Maikönig', rocket or Swiss chard, the herbs herald culinary springtime. In addition to seeds, SPAR offers organic soil which has been awarded with the Austrian ecolabel. Mid-April nine additional organic vegetable plants will follow – varying from cherry tomatoes to zucchini – presented in an ecological and 100% bio-degradable pot made of cornstarch. At the end of May, the organic snack vegetables, which are vegetable plants bearing fruit, will complement the range.
"Logical further development of our organic range"
The organic brand SPAR Natur*pur already consists of about 600 products. In 2010 a sales increase of 13% was achieved. "With our organic garden range, we are offering our customers the opportunity to go for organically grown seed and to develop joy in self gardening – no matter where they live, in urban areas or on the country" explains SPAR President Dr. Gerhard Drexel. The expansion of the SPAR Natur*pur organic range to the garden segment is a logical further development of the range according to Mr. Drexel, "Our responsibility does not end when the food is served, on the contrary, it starts with soil and seed. Sustainability and healthy nutrition are important to our customers and therefore we want to support them with premium organic products when working in the garden."
Gardening with a good conscience
All new SPAR Natur*pur organic garden products come from strictly controlled organic cultivation – the avoidance of chemical fertilizer and spray is compulsory. Organic seed is the best choice for all health and environment conscious hobby gardeners.
SPAR star Mirjam Weichselbraun is brand ambassador
Austria's favourite TV presenter Mirjam Weichselbraun, currently presenting the show ‘Dancing Stars' is the brand ambassador for the new SPAR Natur*pur organic garden products: "My grandmother grew a lot of herbs, salad and vegetables in her garden and I loved to help her. At home I always have fresh basil, rocket and cress for cooking", says the native Tyrolean.
Denmark: New ecological product range ‘Green Balance’
Green Balance is a new series of products which are high in quality and also good for the environment. All food products in the Green Balance range are organic and carry either the Danish Ecological mark or the European Eco logo. Included in the range are a variety of Green Balance detergents and cleaning products. They have been prepared in cooperation with the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of Denmark.
The brand Green Balance stands for:
- Good for you
- Respect towards the environment
Food products
Green Balance is a new series of products enabling you to take good care of yourself and the environment. All Green Balance food is organic. The organic products from Green Balance involve either the Danish red Ø label or the European Eco label. It is your guarantee that it is environmentally friendly. Buy and trial food products from the Green Balance series.
Washing Products
There are numerous Green Balance laundry products. All have been prepared in cooperation with the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of Denmark and all except the fabric softener bear the well known mark ‘Swan'. This means that you can choose Green Balance when you want to consider the environment and take care of yourself and your loved ones.
Cleaning Articles
The cleaning agents in the Green Balance range are gentle and effective products that are hard on dirt but gentle on the environment. All products have been approved to carry the ‘Swan' mark and were developed in cooperation with the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of Denmark.
Satisfaction Guarantee
Should a Green Balance product not live up to your expectations, please bring the product with residual contents to the store where purchased. Then you will be given your money back.
All Green Balance products have passed a special quality check and are approved in cooperation with the Danish Institute for Informative Labelling , who also regularly check the goods.
Austria: First "SPAR gives a clear signal" information days
Austrians want fresh and healthy food products and wish to be informed on the origin of the products they purchase. Sustainable products were integrated in the SPAR range. As the first central European trade organisation SPAR Austria reacts even in their training to this trend: sustainability has been integrated in staff training. Approximately 2,500 trainees have learned a lot on responsible shopping and reasonable handling of resources. The highlight of the training are the "SPAR gives a clear signal" information days in October in all SPAR, EUROSPAR and INTERSPAR stores organized by the trainees themselves, informing customers on sustainable products.
The tool was introduced and developed by SPAR and links sustainability with product knowledge: Organic food and FAIRTRADE are illustrated using the example of Fairtrade SPAR Natur*pur organic bananas. This makes it easy for the young employees to gain knowledge and pass it on. The trainees have the opportunity to sensitise customers. Then the customers can take their own responsibility with their daily shopping.
Unique: Information days in October
The information days will take place on 4 days in October in SPAR, EUROSPAR and INTERSPAR stores. The trainees will set up food tasting and will answer all questions from customers concerning responsible shopping. A sustainable souvenir will be handed over to customers: a calendar on sustainable shopping.
From FAIRTRADE to climate protection
The following questions and more will be answered by SPAR trainees during the "SPAR gives a clear signal" information days: Why should customers buy regional food products? Why are organic food products good for the environment? What does the FAIRTRADE logo stand for? How can I recognize fish from sustainable fishing? What are the advantages of energy saving lamps? In what way can we contribute to climate protection when doing our daily shopping? Furthermore customers have the opportunity to taste regional food from Austria, such as SPAR Natur*pur organic apples, SPAR Natur*pur organic drink yoghurt or the - SPAR Vital Actiplus drink.
SPAR International: Developing local sourcing in China
SPAR International is developing the opportunity to work with local farmers by promoting local sourcing and encouraging local employment in China. The new project for increasing local sourcing possibilities is underway with the support of SPAR International, LEI (Agricultural Economics Research Institute), IAE (Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences) and Hubei Supervision Office for Rural Professional Co-operative Organisation.
This project links small scale farmers into co-operatives and integrates them into the modern food supply chain. It will bring products of local farmers to modern food retail outlets. Whilst using SPAR's international experience in developing rural economies, the project is focusing on developing rural parts of China, which is in line with the government policy of rural economic development
This project is subsidised by the EVD a semi-governmental institution which reports back into the Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs. The €350,000 funding will be spent in sending agricultural experts over from The Netherlands and Beijing to improve the fresh supply chain within SPAR Hubei and SPAR Henan. The funding will be spent in research, professional advice, training of farmers and stakeholders within the supply chain, in short – the overall improvement and a more efficient fresh supply chain.
The project started in March 2008 in the Hubei and Henan provinces. It is anticipated that establishment of sustainable fresh supply chain in SPAR Hubei and Henan will take place by the end of 2009.
Switzerland: 'Frisch aus der Nachbarschaft'
'Frisch aus der Nachbarschaft' (fresh from the local neighbourhood) is a special incentive offered by SPAR Switzerland supporting local sourcing. The assortment includes fruits, vegetables, bread, cheese, dairy products, meat specialties and more, all locally sourced fresh from the farmer next door.
The number of customers focusing on the origin of a product during their decision making process is increasing. They show a preference for a locally sourced product over an imported product. In recognition of this trend, SPAR Switzerland is offering locally sourced products. Fresh fruits and vegetables are harvested daily and are delivered to the store on the same day due to direct and close transportation possibilities.
SPAR Switzerland and its local producers work closely together. Within their partnerships they guarantee that the best quality products are free of additives and 100% naturally produced.
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SPAR International: Providing consumers with GDA labelling
SPAR is committed to clearer nutrition food labelling on Private Label product ranges to meet the need which consumers have for clear information. We do this by stating the GDA's (Guideline Daily Amounts) clearly on the product facing and giving more comprehensive declaration on the back of the pack.
Introduction to GDA
Research has shown that consumers would like to have more and clearer nutritional information on food packaging in order to make healthier choices about the products they buy. SPAR International has developed a front of pack labelling scheme using the system of Guideline Daily Amounts (GDA). More comprehensive nutrition information is given on the back of packs.
What are GDA?
GDA were developed by the UK based Institute of Grocery Distribution (IGD), based on Government guidelines to help provide consumers with a benchmark for a healthy diet. GDA are a guide to how much energy and key nutrients the average healthy person needs in order to have a balanced diet. GDA indicate the contribution of one portion of food in terms of energy (calories) and key nutrients (sugar, fat, saturates and sodium) to a person's daily intake.
All of the GDA are based on the recommendations for an average adult of healthy weight and average activity level.
* CIAA Recommended GDA (proposed values) for women. For labelling purposes it was agreed that the GDA values currently used for women be used as figures for all adults.
Why are GDA useful?
GDA enable consumers to use nutrition information to compare the energy or nutrient levels of different foods, thus helping them to make the appropriate choice when shopping. GDA make planning a healthy balanced diet much easier by informing consumers of a food's nutritional profile.
GDA signposts are adopted by an increasing number of brand manufacturers as well as other retailers. This makes it even easier for consumers to compare nutritional content of products across different brands.
In the GDA panel shown above, SPAR International has brought this essential information to the front of pack in order to generate higher awareness amongst consumers.
Austria: Pesticide programme shows success
For the past few years, SPAR Austria has been working intensively with a company 'pesticide control and reduction programme' for fruit & vegetables. This is based on giving direct specifications to suppliers, monitoring the production and co-operating with suppliers concerning the minimization of use of pesticides. During external tests, such as the one executed by the Food Safety Institute in Vienna on behalf of Global 2000, the success of the SPAR system was evident.
In principle, the samples taken from SPAR, EUROSPAR and INTERSPAR were free of pesticides. Only one sample showed some residues, but those were clearly below the permitted values. Tested were for example peaches, nectarines, apricots, plums, peppers, salad as well as prepared salads, all from conventional cropping.
SPAR Austria has appointed an employee who studied at the University of Agriculture to be responsible for this programme. As each country has ‘good' as well as ‘bad' suppliers, SPAR works with suppliers in long-lasting partnerships. They believe this is the only way to address the issue of pesticides systematically and in cooperation with suppliers.
Trust between manufacturers and SPAR
As manufacturers work closely with SPAR in long-lasting partnerships, they know the needs of the Austrian market and are prepared to adapt to the high requirements of trading partner SPAR.
SPAR demands high international accepted standards
Suppliers of the pesticide control system have to commit to produce according to the EUREP-GAP criteria. These are internationally accepted production standards to minimize the use of crop protection products. The standards are adapted regularly by highly recognized bodies.
Consciously searching for pesticide risk
Through partner suppliers, SPAR has access to hundreds of study results per product. "We do not just rely on those results, but do our own research in Austrian laboratories", explains Joachim Massani, responsible for the quality of food in the area fruit & vegetables at SPAR. "After a risk analysis, we choose approximately 300 samples a year. In national authorized laboratories those are tested for more than 450 (!) active components on a voluntary basis. When choosing the products we consciously search the risk. We take those products known for many pest management measures," continues Massani.
Common solution with manufacturers
In only a few cases since the programme was launched in 1999, were residues found that are not permitted according the Austrian law. "Every result is communicated to the manufacturer and together we work on a solution and a reduction", affirms Joachim Massani.
INTERSPAR Managing Director Markus Kaser
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