Giant Food, a top grocery chain in the Washington, D.C. area, has teamed up with Divert, Inc. to tackle food waste. Since 2022, their partnership has successfully processed nearly 80 million pounds of unsold food, which has cut down carbon emissions by more than 37,000 metric tons.
Diane Hicks, Senior Vice President of Operations at Giant Food, highlighted their mission to reduce waste and support local communities. “We’re proud to lead the way in changing how the industry manages unsold food,” she said.
The alliance kicked off in June 2022, introducing a recycling program that spans all 163 Giant Food stores in Maryland, Virginia, Delaware, and D.C. This initiative aims to divert unsold products from landfills. For food that can’t be sold or donated, Divert uses anaerobic digestion, turning it into renewable energy and nutrient-rich compost.
Beyond reducing waste, Giant Food has stepped up its community outreach. In 2024 alone, they donated over 6.1 million pounds of food, which equals about 5.1 million meals. Their Meat the Needs Program and Fresh Food Recovery work closely with food banks, soup kitchens, and local partners to ensure that wholesome food reaches those in need.
By recycling more food and increasing donations, Giant Food prevented over 35 million pounds of food waste in 2024. This not only helps fight hunger but also shows their dedication to sustainable practices.
Ryan Begin, CEO of Divert, shared his pride in their partnership with Giant Food. “Together, we are changing how food is managed and promoting a circular economy,” he said. This collaboration highlights what can be achieved when companies commit to sustainability and innovation.
Learn more about Giant Food’s efforts with Divert here.
About Giant
Giant Food has served its community since opening its first store in Washington, D.C. in 1936. It operates 163 supermarkets across Virginia, Maryland, Delaware, and D.C., employing around 20,000 people. The company prioritizes local giving, focusing on food insecurity, military support, pediatric cancer research, and social equality. Customers can shop in-store or online, with delivery and pickup options available.
About Divert, Inc.
Founded in 2007, Divert is dedicated to reducing food waste through innovative technologies and infrastructure. Their mission is to create a circular economy, turning unsold food into renewable energy and helping those in need. For more information, visit Divert’s website.
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retail,sustainability,food waste,giant food,Divert Inc
