Sainsbury’s enlists food sharing app Olio for 'waste less, save more' drive

The grocer launched a £1m initiative in Swadlincote, South Derbyshire, as part of its five-year programme to tackle the issue of food wastage.

Sainsbury’s will trial the latest retail technologies in the town over the next 12 months to help shoppers reduce the amount they throw away.

Using food sharing start-up Olio’s app, residents can post details and photos of surplus food they want to offer to others. Real-time messaging and drop boxes located in local businesses, including Sainsbury’s stores, allows for speedy swapping.

Founded a year ago, Olio is the first retail technology start-up Sainsbury’s has partnered with on this initiative.

Sainsbury’s head of sustainability Paul Crewe said: “We wanted to give people in Swadlincote the tools and knowledge to start making a difference from day one.

“Our target to help Swadlincote halve its food waste is very ambitious but with the aid of new technology like Olio we believe we can help people change their habits.”

Previously Olio’s app was available in London only. Speaking to Retail Week last year, co-founder Tessa Cook said the start-up planned to extend its food sharing app in UK cities later this year.

Previously Olio’s app was available in London only. Speaking to Retail Week last year, co-founder Tessa Cook said the start-up planned to extend its food sharing app in UK cities later this year.