Pick n Pay launches package-free zones in Cape Town

Retail 4 December 2019

Pick n Pay announced that it is piloting a new 'pick and weigh' packaging-free zone that allows customers to purchase a wide range of products without any packaging at the newly revamped Pick n Pay Constantia store in Cape Town.

There are 88 dry grocery products across 15 different categories from which customers can choose. This includes dry baking goods, cereals, dried fruit, flour, grains, ground coffee beans, nuts, pasta, pulses and beans, rice, seeds, spices, superfoods, olive oil and vinegar. Pick n Pay says each category will have a range of products, including gluten-free options.

Customers will be encouraged to bring their own reusable container, but for those who might forget theirs, the store will offer free paper bags and a range of reusable containers that can be purchased, such as a Consol jar.

“This is an innovative concept for a traditional supermarket, and we are really excited to help our customers reduce their packaging footprint,” said Paula Disberry, retail executive: commercial at Pick n Pay.

“We will closely monitor customer appetite for this offering and based on their feedback, will decide how to expand this offering. While all items are non-perishable with a naturally long shelf life, food waste is still a concern because without packaging, products will have a shorter shelf life.”