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Today's Supermarket Green Analysis
10/16/2007
National Consumer Council Gives Green Grocers a "C"
UK based NCC Green Grocers wouldn't exist if there wasn't an unprecedented interest in supermarkets going green in Great Britain. US based Supermarket Green News finds the UK is taking a worldwide lead on consumer awareness and supermarkets are top targets and expects the US to follow.
Sainsbury (LSE:SBRY.L - news): Waitrose and M&S (LSE: MKS.L - news) are named the three most eco-friendly big food chains in the National Consumer Council Green Grocers' survey. The NCC, (NCCB.ST - news), which reported yesterday that green shopping is no longer the preserve of wealthy consumers, will continue to push for a 100% carbon free shopping experience.
Tesco (LSE: TSCO.L - news) - the UK's biggest supermarket - was awarded a C-grade overall, the same grade as their rival Asda (NYSE: WMT - news).
Waitrose, Sainsbury's and M&S achieved B-grade scores. Morrisons and Somerfield showed Ds and this was up from last year's E grades. So up up we go.
Plastic bag use is the top no-no. They are looking for greater use of recycled and Forest Stewardship Council-certified contnt in packaging. Out of season shelfing is also on the list.
NCC chair Larry Whitty said: "NCC's research has spotted important signs of progress right across the market, with all stores now beginning to embrace sustainability."
In the US Wholefoods Markets (NYSE: WFMI) and the new employee-owned Publix Greenwise Markets are taking the lead, with enviro-friendliness covering everything from green buildings to energy savings and education. The aim is clearly to the high-end consumer. SMG News ranks less pricey Safeway the #3 Green Grocer. SmartMoney recently offered suggetions for organic shopping on a budget.
There is no US equivalent to the NCC. SMG News will be providing detailed ratings and economic analysis for investors and those who do business with US grocers.
Article by James Carvin
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