Co-op's new bakery scheme cuts waste and slashes prices after 6pm

Co-op's new bakery scheme cuts waste and slashes prices after 6pm

Industry News
co-op Food waste

The Co-op launches 'Too Good To Waste', offering half-price bakery items after 6pm to reduce food waste and support community savings, as it enhances its sustainability initiatives alongside festive season plans.

The Co-op has introduced a new initiative aimed at helping its members save money while tackling food waste across its stores. The ‘Too Good To Waste’ scheme offers a 50% discount on loose and unpackaged in-store bakery items after 6pm every day. This includes a variety of freshly baked goods such as All Butter Croissants, Bakery Cinnamon Swirls, bread rolls, and baguettes, available while stocks last. The offer is designed to appeal to shoppers seeking evening treats or last-minute bakery top-ups for their homes.

Charlotte Waring, a Co-op Buyer, highlighted the convenience and benefits of the scheme, stating that it supports members by providing savings and encourages sustainable consumption. “As a convenience retailer, we know that we’re there for those little shops at the end of the day, and our new Too Good To Waste initiative is a simple way to help our members save while also reducing food waste – so everyone can enjoy delicious bakery treats and do their bit for the planet,” she said.

This latest move builds on Co-op’s broader commitment to sustainability and community support, demonstrated through its ongoing partnership with children’s charity Barnardo’s. Alongside the bakery discount scheme, the retailer has also launched its Christmas sandwich range, which includes unique offerings like a Festive Onion Bhaji Sandwich. Co-op has pledged to donate £50,000 from the sales of these festive sandwiches to Barnardo’s, as part of an extended initiative aimed at raising £7 million to support positive futures for one million young people across the UK. This partnership, now in its third year, has already raised £5 million to help nearly 600,000 young people.

The Christmas food-to-go range, available from late October, features both new and returning festive favourites such as the Irresistible Turkey Double Dip n Dunk Wrap and premium options like a peppercorn steak wrap with rosemary gravy dip. These sandwiches are priced affordably, with core items sold individually or as part of meal deals that provide added value to members. Through its membership rewards system, Co-op shoppers also earn 2p for every £1 spent on branded products, which can be redeemed in store or channeled to support local community initiatives.

Co-op’s ‘Too Good To Waste’ scheme demonstrates the retailer's commitment to combining sustainability with community care and customer value, reinforcing its role as a convenience retailer attuned to modern consumer needs and environmental responsibility.