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Sustainability Index 2023 sheds light on foodservice industry’s sustainability journey

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Nestlé Professional has unveiled the Footprint Sustainability Index 2023 providing further support to the foodservice industry on its journey towards Net Zero. 

The report, which was launched during a panel discussion with industry leaders, is packed with need-to-know insights, emerging trends and opportunities. It shows that while achieving Net Zero may seem daunting, there are plenty of actions that organisations can take to advance their sustainability goals.

Developed in collaboration with Footprint Intelligence, the report draws on in-depth interviews, exclusive consumer research, and wider industry analysis. Designed to help businesses understand the most critical issues, it provides insight and recommendations on culture and supply chains; sustainable diets; food and plastic waste; attracting and maintaining clients; saving energy and protecting natural resources; and fostering wellbeing.

When compared to last year’s Sustainability Index, the report reveals the industry has made significant steps forward over the past year.

•    Last year’s Sustainability Index showed that climate change had pushed sustainability strategies into full focus. This year, it reveals biodiversity loss is being recognised as a threat to the climate, and the food industry has redoubled efforts to address this and Scope 3 emissions. 

•    Consumers are continuing to reduce meat consumption – for health and sustainability reasons. They’re keen to understand more about the health benefits of plant-based proteins, leaning towards businesses showing strong sustainability credentials.

•    Innovation will be key on the road to Net Zero, and in the face of staff shortages, it’s important that the industry rewards and motivates employees well if it’s to attract the creative talent it needs moving forwards.

Amy Fetzer, Head of Research and Analysis at Footprint Intelligence talked about these and other key findings during a lively panel discussion with Julia Jones, Head of B2B Marketing, Nestlé Professional, Philip Rowden, Global Food Sustainability and Wellbeing Manager, ISS and Rachel Eyre, Sustainable Procurement Manager, Compass Group UK&Ireland. Talking about their organisation’s learning and sustainability successes, the attendees agreed that the industry has made strong progress over the last year, and that sustainability remains an important driver for success, despite current economic pressures.

Katya Simmons, managing director of Nestlé Professional UK & Ireland, said: 

"Last year was one of the toughest ever for foodservice and hospitality businesses, with inflated costs and supply shortages continuing to impact the industry. Despite these challenges, it's heartening to see our industry’s commitment to Net Zero has remained strong.
 
"We’ve packed the Sustainability Index with examples and tools to support foodservice leaders on their sustainability journey. Now it’s important that we continue to collaborate and work together on our journey towards Net Zero – sharing successes and finding creative solutions to the difficulties our industry faces now and in the future."

To view and download the Sustainability Index report, foodservice operators can click here.