Carrefour, operated by Majid Al Futtaim in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), is endorsing the adoption of sustainable alternatives in stores as it celebrates the Plastic Free July campaign.
The initiative promotes the use of durable, reusable juco bags with attractive offers and rewards, while also reducing the availability of single-use plastic bags across its stores in the country, a press release published via Zawya revealed.
To commemorate the start of Plastic Free July, Carrefour is offering a 33% discount on its durable, reusable juco bags.
Additionally, customers who bring their own reusable bags or purchase one in-store will receive five extra SHARE points.
The retailer will also offer complimentary reusable bags for those spending more than Dh40 ($11) in the fruit and vegetable section.
Starting from 3 July 2024, which coincides with International Plastic Bag Free Day, Carrefour will eliminate plastic bags entirely from all its stores every Wednesday.
This initiative aligns with the company’s larger commitment to phase out plastic bags and promote sustainable shopping habits.
Carrefour is complying with the UAE government initiative to ban certain single-use plastic items from 1 June.
In addition, the retailer will start offering reusable bags that are thicker than 57 microns, in compliance with new regulations, at affordable prices to encourage the adoption of reusable alternatives.
Majid Al Futtaim Retail human capital and sustainability senior vice-president Samar Elmnhrawy said: “With over 80 thousand customers entering our stores daily, we see a significant opportunity to positively impact our planet and encourage sustainable lifestyles for future generations. This Plastic Free July, we are embarking on a bigger plastic-free journey to drive awareness and inspire positive change.
“Our efforts are aligned with the UAE leadership’s goals to eliminate single-use plastics. We hope to create tangible results that shift customer attitudes towards more sustainable shopping behaviour for a greener future.”
In its dedication to sustainability, Majid Al Futtaim Retail has already partnered with BEEAH and Sparklo through its Reverse Vending Machine initiative.
This partnership resulted in the collection of more than 20mt of recyclables and preventing the release of over 125mt of CO₂.
Carrefour has also seen a 70% reduction in the use of single-use plastic bags since the national ban.
