Co-Op-AR-2021-146

Source: Central England Co-op

It currently offers a range of products including oats, porridge, rice and dried fruit

Central England Co-op is widening its refill station offer with bodycare and home cleaning products from September.

The new offering will be found at its flagship Boley Park store in Lichfield, Staffordshire, following a trial with Suma Wholefoods.

It currently offers a range of products including oats, porridge, rice and dried fruit. The initiative formed part of the society’s ongoing efforts to cut down on plastic packaging and waste.

The trial extension will now allow shoppers to use their own containers to stock up on Suma brands for shampoo, conditioner, washing-up liquid and laundry liquid.

The products are vegan, cruelty-free and made in the UK.

“As a responsible business, we are committed to minimising our impact on the environment and doing so in new and innovative ways,” said Central England Co-op corporate responsiblity manager Hannah Gallimore.

“We were delighted to launch our first-ever zero waste refill station at our flagship store and have been so pleased with the positive feedback from colleagues, customers and members.

“We hope adding these additional products will provide even more choice for shoppers and lead to the continued success of this exciting trial concept.”

Suma national account manager Johnny Spencer said: “We’re delighted to be working on this trial with Central England Co-operative. Zero waste has seen a rise in demand over the last few years, as more consumers look for alternatives that are good for the environment and the pocket.

“Central England is really leading the way in the convenience sector, testing out how refills can work at scale.

“Not only does Central England’s zero-waste refill station offer affordable options, the range also reduces environmental impact, making it an attractive option for customers of all kinds.

“And, as both Central England and Suma are co-ops, working together is in our DNA.”