Our approach
Biodiversity
To ensure that future generations can continue to benefit from nature’s richness, we must safeguard biological diversity as our shared heritage. We are also aware of the interconnections between the destabilisation of natural ecosystems and ongoing climate change.
In our commitment to contributing to global goals for the protection of natural resources, we adopted a Biodiversity Policy in 2023. This policy outlines general principles for preventing biodiversity loss and sets out the main directions for action in this area. It focuses on ecosystem protection, including efforts to combat deforestation. The adopted policy applies to Żabka Polska, its franchisees, and private-label product suppliers.
As part of our commitment to biodiversity protection, we have reviewed Żabka Polska’s supply chain and the raw materials whose sourcing may contribute to deforestation or other negative impacts on terrestrial and marine ecosystems. We have introduced principles for the sustainable sourcing of sensitive plant-based raw materials used in the production of own brand products, such as coffee, cocoa, tea, soy, as well as fish and seafood. All of these raw material groups must be certified as sustainably sourced by independent and internationally recognised certification bodies.
Moreover, we do not use palm oil in our own brand products. Since 2023, we only allow branded supplier products containing palm oil to be sold in our network if the oil is certified as sustainably sourced. These certification requirements for sensitive raw materials primarily aim to minimise the negative impact on forest ecosystems worldwide, which serve as natural habitats for many plant and animal species.
To further reduce our negative impact on global forest cover, Żabka Polska is preparing to comply with the obligations arising from the EUDR regulation. This forms the foundation for our continued efforts to prevent forest degradation and deforestation. Based on this, we will develop solutions for the sustainable management of raw materials in both own brand and branded products.
Another important aspect of our sustainable use of natural reserves is the protection of water resources. Water availability is one of the key factors shaping the structure and resilience of natural ecosystems worldwide. We implement a Water Policy that defines principles for reducing water consumption and protecting water resources from pollution. We consider this both in operational terms – focusing on efficient water management in our own operations – and in production terms, related to water use in supply chains. In this way, we aim to protect global surface and groundwater resources (defined water bodies).
In 2024, we also conducted an analysis of the locations of our investments in terms of their occupation of areas of critical importance for biodiversity. The assessment considered the direct and indirect surroundings of each site across five categories: proximity to protected areas, proximity to Natura 2000 sites (protecting species and habitats), hydrology, land cover, and noise and light pollution. None of the assessed locations had a significant impact on biodiversity.
Circular Economy
Circular Economy
Żabka Group consistently implements actions that support the circular economy across all its entities, integrating them with the Environmental and Climate Framework Policy. The initiatives introduced align with the waste hierarchy, which includes prevention, reuse, recycling, recovery and disposal. This approach helps reduce resource consumption and supports the achievement of the objectives set out in the EU’s new Circular Economy Action Plan.
Eco‑design of unit and logistics packaging
One of the key areas of activity is designing packaging in line with eco‑design principles. The packaging of all Żabka Polska own brand products has been adapted to these requirements. Changes included using recycled materials (e.g. rPET) for bottles, trays and bowls, removing black ink from packaging, reducing packaging weight, and replacing laminates with mono‑materials. The use of reusable and paper bags is another step towards reducing waste and improving resource efficiency.
In the logistics area of Żabka Group’s most mature organisational unit – Żabka Polska – solutions are being implemented to reduce the amount of packaging waste, including the use of reusable transport packaging for product distribution. In addition, cooperation with franchisees is carried out under the “Naturalnie Razem” programme, supporting the recovery of secondary raw materials from paper and foil packaging delivered to stores.
Collaboration with customers and changing habits
Customer engagement and the promotion of conscious consumer choices are key elements of driving circularity. Programmes that encourage the return of packaging, including Żabka Polska’s voluntary participation in the national deposit system, support the reuse of raw materials. Further initiatives promote the use of reusable cups and encourage customers to return glass deposit packaging.
Partnerships and innovation
Żabka Group actively collaborates with partners from the retail sector, the waste management industry and scientific institutions, implementing pilot and research projects. An example is cooperation within the Retail ReLooped initiative, which promotes a new approach to packaging systems used in food retail and supports the transition towards a resource‑efficient economy. By creating a ‘living laboratory’ within Żabka Polska’s retail network, new systems and practices will be analysed to help reduce the use of packaging materials, improve recycling and increase reuse. The initiative benefits from the support of the EU’s Interreg South Baltic Programme.
Our Policies in this area
Environmental and Climate Framework Policy defines the directional ambitions of Zabka Group related to the Environmental and Climate matters in reference to the Group’s ESG Framework.
Żabka Polska strategic commitment is to create conditions for a green and sustainable living for everyone, every day. This is why one of the core pillars of our Responsibility Strategy is the Green Planet. Żabka focus on actions that allow us to minimize our environmental impact across the whole value chain to protect Green Planet.
The decarbonisation policy sets out general guidelines to achieve the climate goals described in our Responsibility Strategy. This policy also responds to commitments arising from Żabka’s participation in initiatives to address climate change.
The Energy Policy indicates a course of action aiming to increase energy efficiency and the share of renewable energy sources, both in the Żabka’s own operations (scope 2) and in value chain (scope 3).
The Travel Policy is a set of principles and good practices for travel in the performance of professional duties by Żabka Polska Employees and Associates. It aims to facilitate informed and more environmentally friendly management decisions regarding travel and means of transport.
The Transport Policy sets out general principles for the transport of goods at Żabka Polska, in line with environmental responsibility and applies to current and future Business Partners responsible for transporting goods.
The Policy sets out the rules relating to the reduction of water use and the protection of water resources.
The Policy sets out the guidelines in respect of the recommended waste management methods to reduce waste production at each point in the product’s lifecycle. This Policy applies to Żabka Polska, Franchisees, as well as the suppliers of Own Brand Products and other brand products.
Selected activities
Competition powering positive change
Competition powering positive change
Every day, Żabka stores operate in the rhythm of thousands of repetitive actions which – although often unnoticed – have a real impact not only on the operational efficiency of our network, but also on the environment. In 2025, we once again proved that responsible energy management does not always require major investments, and that real savings can stem from everyday decisions made in each store.
In the refreshed edition of the “Battle for Energy” competition, franchisees from across Poland took on the challenge of improving the energy efficiency of their stores. The programme was designed to combine a competitive element with knowledge‑building and the development of habits related to responsible energy use. Participants had the chance to see that simple actions, carried out consistently, can generate noticeable benefits.
The practical implementation of the programme included a range of good practices that each franchisee could apply in their store. These included maintaining air conditioning temperatures within the 21-23°C range, ensuring doors remained closed on hot days, safeguarding proper airflow around refrigeration equipment, regularly cleaning ventilation grilles, and checking water heater settings. A crucial aspect was also monitoring the performance of refrigeration devices, where proper configuration and organisation helped reduce unnecessary energy consumption. An important role was played by data from energy‑use monitoring systems, enabling franchisees to track performance in Power BI reports and consciously manage equipment operations.
The edition carried out between May and September 2025 attracted significant interest. More than 3,300 franchisees completed the full cycle, and monthly targets were met a total of around 4,000 times. Altogether, the programme generated nearly 2 GWh of energy savings, equivalent to the annual energy demand of nearly 800 households. This confirms that even small changes, repeated across the entire network, can deliver measurable results. The most engaged participants received the main prizes – awarded to 105 franchisees – with the total prize budget reaching nearly one million PLN!
The “Battle for Energy” programme has also become an important tool supporting the delivery of climate goals outlined in our Responsibility Strategy and will become a regular feature in our calendar – the next edition has already been announced for 2026. The actions taken by franchisees directly contribute to reducing emissions within our network, supporting our climate commitments. It is these everyday good habits, implemented across thousands of stores, that are key to achieving shared success.
Driving change with customers – small steps, big impact
Driving change with customers – small steps, big impact
At Żabka Group, supporting a circular economy is a key part of our ESG Framework and Environmental Policy Environmental and Climate Framework Policy. That’s why we make packaging returns simple and accessible across all our retail chains. Both in Poland and Romania, Żabka Polska and Froo Romania actively participate in national Deposit Return Systems (DRS), helping reduce waste and increase recycling rates. ️
In Poland, the system was launched in October 2025 and applies to bottles and cans from 0.1 to 3 liters made of glass, PET, and metal. Almost all of our 12,000 Żabka stores across the country are already part of this system – even though not all are legally required to join. Customers can return both deposit and non-deposit packaging directly in stores, using either manual collection or one of over 2,500 automated reverse vending machines (RVMs), all clearly marked in green.
Each returned deposit bottle or can generates a refund or discount at checkout, while all returned packaging (including non-deposit items) earns additional points in our application – making responsible habits simple, convenient, and part of everyday life.
In Romania, the system – called RetuRO – was launched on 30 November 2023 and covers all retailers. All Froo Romania stores are legally required to provide packaging waste collection at each point of sale. In our largest stores, we have additionally installed RVMs to ensure automated and efficient collection for customers.
By implementing the Deposit Return System in both markets, we’re making recycling more accessible, empowering customers to act responsibly, and supporting national sustainability goals. This is how we turn everyday convenience into a driver for positive change.
We have maintained AWS certification – another step towards responsible water stewardship
We have maintained AWS certification – another step towards responsible water stewardship
Żabka Polska has once again confirmed its commitment to protecting water resources by maintaining its Alliance for Water Stewardship (AWS) certification. This international standard promotes responsible water management, both within the company’s operations and in the catchments where it operates. Maintaining certification demonstrates our dedication and diligence in implementing our Responsibility Strategy.
In 2022, we introduced a Water Resources Policy within the company, one of the key objectives of which was to obtain AWS certification – a goal we achieved in 2024. This and other provisions of the Policy set the direction for improving the efficiency of warehouse processes, minimising impact on water resources, and educating employees on environmental protection. In November 2025, the AWS Surveillance II audit was carried out, covering the Logistics Centres in Plewiska and Komorniki as well as the Wirynka river catchment.
Over recent months, we have implemented a range of initiatives that show water responsibility is more than just words. In April 2025, employees joined forces with the Wielkopolski National Park (WNP) to plant 250 trees in the Wiry Protective Zone, supporting reforestation efforts. In June, workshops were held at the Plewiska Logistics Centre, led by experts from WNP and the Institute of Meteorology and Water Management, focusing on retention and water resource protection. During the summer, we organised a webinar for employees entitled “Everything Starts with Water”, which raised awareness of responsible water management. In 2025, we also replaced refrigeration equipment in our oldest warehouse, which has been in operation for many years – an important step towards improving energy efficiency and reducing emissions.
As Patrycja Aremke, Environmental Protection Team Manager at Żabka, emphasises: ‘Maintaining AWS certification is not just about meeting formal requirements; it is a confirmation of our consistent implementation of the Responsibility Strategy and Water Resources Policy. Thanks to projects such as tree planting, clean-up campaigns, and the installation of a water basket in Dziwnów, we not only meet certification requirements but also make a real impact on our surroundings.’
Radzymin Logistics Centre achieves BREEAM In-Use certification
Radzymin Logistics Centre achieves BREEAM In-Use certification
For Żabka, sustainability is not just a slogan, it’s a genuine commitment. In our Responsibility Strategy, we strive to consider every aspect of the company’s operations, including a sustainable approach to our property portfolio. Our goal is to ensure that buildings are efficiently managed, user-friendly, and have a minimal environmental impact. Following the success of achieving BREEAM New Construction certification during the design and construction phase of the Radzymin Logistics Centre, we set ourselves another ambitious challenge: to confirm that we maintain the highest environmental and technological standards in day-to-day operations.
The BREEAM In-Use certificate is an international proof that a building is managed responsibly and in line with best practices. We wanted to demonstrate that our logistics centre was not only designed with environmental impact in mind but also operates in a way that minimises this impact while ensuring user comfort. It’s the natural ‘life cycle of a building’: from good design to equally good management.
From audit to success – behind the certification
BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) is an international system for assessing buildings in terms of their environmental impact, user comfort, and management efficiency. The In-Use variant applies to buildings already in operation and examines how they are used, maintained, and modernised on a daily basis.
The BREEAM In-Use certification process covers two key areas:
• Asset Performance – the physical characteristics of the building, its structure and installations.
• Building Management – management practices, procedures, maintenance, and monitoring.
The audit was thorough: it analysed HVAC system efficiency, energy and water consumption, waste management, impact on biodiversity, air quality, acoustics, safety, and even accessibility and user amenities. Additionally, BREEAM requirements include assessing physical risks related to climate change, transition risks towards a low-carbon economy, and social risks. This was not a one-off effort – to maintain and improve the building’s standards in the coming years, we will implement or sustain numerous initiatives, such as regular inspections of smart building management systems (BMS), water-saving programmes, waste segregation, and pro-environmental actions: green plantings to support biodiversity and air quality monitoring. Education and communication with employees also play a key role, as we aim to raise awareness that everyday actions have an environmental impact.
Benefits for everyone – from environment to business The result? The Radzymin Logistics Centre has achieved BREEAM In-Use certification at Excellent level – one of the most prestigious standards for sustainable buildings in the operational phase. This is not only confirmation that our Responsibility Strategy works in practice; the benefits of certification are multi-dimensional:
• Environmental – lower energy and water consumption, improved waste management.
• Business – reduced operating costs, enhanced working comfort, increased property value.
• Strategic – competitive advantage and tangible support for ESG goals, including emissions reduction.
As Łukasz Wierski, Żabka’s Technical Director, emphasises: ‘From the perspective of someone responsible for the technical area in our organisation, I particularly appreciate how demanding and developmental the BREEAM In-Use certification process is. It confirms that consistent technical decisions, operational oversight, and attention to building efficiency translate into real results. Certification strengthens the direction we are pursuing – modern, safe, and sustainable facilities prepared for future challenges.’
Working together to create innovation as part of Relooped
Working together to create innovation as part of Relooped
At Żabka, we are constantly looking for innovations and technologies that will allow us to create convenient and responsible solutions. For this reason, we are delighted to have joined a broad cooperation, involving not only commercial companies, but also scientific institutions. Our common goal is to develop innovative solutions that will serve both our customers and the planet.
As part of our commitment to the RETAIL RELOOPED project, managed by BOFA, we actively cooperate with partners from various sectors - from retail, through the waste industry, to science. We strive to create food packaging that will be not only functional but also environmentally friendly.
This international initiative, supported by funds from the Interreg South Baltic EU program, allows us to actively work on developing new, sustainable solutions. Thanks to the involvement of waste industry institutions, the world of science, but also retail chains, such as Żabka, it is possible to test innovative circular solutions on many levels, also with the active participation of users. As a supporting partner, we will engage our customers in testing innovative packaging in selected network stores, which serve as "living labs".
Our commitment to the RELOOPED project not only emphasizes our innovation, but above all, it is an expression of our responsibility - one of the main values of our company. This cooperation fits into the Żabka Responsibility Strategy, specifically into pillar 04 Green Planet, which assumes active action for sustainable development. We are proud to be part of this initiative, which contributes to building a sustainable future. We believe that through cooperation with other companies and scientific institutions, we can jointly develop solutions that will be good for both our customers and the planet.
Contributing to comprehensive research on approach to climate change
Contributing to comprehensive research on approach to climate change
Żabka Group is one of the main patrons of the fourth edition Humans Attack!, a study by Lata Dwudzieste agency and Kantar Polska into the attitudes Polish people have to the essential issue of climate change.
The report's first edition, published in 2019, aligned with Fridays for Future movement, where ordinary people, many of them young enough still to be school or college students, protested to demand action to protect the climate and prevent global temperatures from rising by more than 1.5ᵒC. The attitudes stemming from this action were also reflected in the 2020 edition, which showed that 78% of respondents were afraid of the impact of climate change.
By contrast, the most recent research shows a decline in this figure to 63% – still a significant proportion of those questioned, but a major decline nonetheless. As the report asks, ‘Have five waves of pandemics, the outbreak of war abroad and the energy crisis blinded Poles to the problems of the Earth?’
Keeping climate change in the public eye
At Żabka, in line with our commitment to decarbonisation, a circular economy and sustainable value creation, we are engaged to the study of attitudes and the impact of climate change on society.
Writing an article in the report called Sustainable shopping – time to bin bad habits, our Sustainability Director, Rafał Rudzki analysed which solutions of Żabka ecosystem foster the abandonment of people's bad grocery shopping habits. According to Rafał, the cooperation on the ‘Humans Attack!’ report fits perfectly with the activities undertaken by the Group: ’The Żabka Group promotes a sustainable lifestyle and makes it easier to follow every day. We study trends, share knowledge, and implement responsible solutions. Supporting this initiative fosters public debate and long-term, sustainable economic and social development with care for the environment.’
Also in the report, in an article called How food selection criteria are changing with the increased awareness of climate change, our Brand & Innovation Director, Jan Kisielewski analyses how consumers act in the face of increasing threats connected to global warming.
As Jan emphasis: ‘In building an effective pro-consumer strategy, tracking trends is crucial for us, which is why the decision to patronise the 'Humans Attack!' research was obvious. This collaboration gives us a broad perspective on the approach of Poles to climate change issues and their readiness to adapt their lifestyle and consumption. We are proud to support research in such an important area today to more effectively help our customers change their daily habits for the better.’
Żabka in collaboration with UNEP/GRID-Warsaw protects the waters of the Baltic Sea
Żabka in collaboration with UNEP/GRID-Warsaw protects the waters of the Baltic Sea
At Żabka, we are aware that biodiversity is one of the key elements ensuring optimal conditions for human functioning and economic activities. Biological diversity is our heritage, and its preservation is essential to ensure access to nature's wealth for future generations, which is why we are taking further steps to support its protection.
In order to act effectively in the field of biodiversity protection, we decided to join the Re:Generacja programme, which is UNEP/GRID-Warsaw's response as an affiliate centre of the United Nations Environment Programme to the UN's declaration of the years 2021-2030 as the Decade on Ecosystem Restoration.
As part of this collaboration, with the support of the Mare Foundation, in September 2024, we launched a sea bin funded by the Żabka Group in the port of Dziwnów, which will clean the waters of the Baltic Sea from litter over the next two years, thereby supporting the maintenance of the marine ecosystem's biodiversity. The installation of the bin allows for the removal of waste (including single-use plastics) from the port basin before it reaches the seabed, where it would decompose, polluting the waters and posing a threat to marine organisms. Reducing one of the sources of human-induced negative pressure on the marine ecosystem in this way not only positively impacts water cleanliness but also strengthens the resilience of the entire Baltic natural environment.
As Marta Urbaniak, Director of Quality and Environmental Management at Żabka, emphasises: ‘We are pleased that together with UNEP/GRID-Warsaw and the Mare Foundation, we can support efforts to protect the valuable Baltic Sea ecosystem for all of us. We hope that the installation of the sea bin in Dziwnów will increase ecological awareness about how to properly manage post-consumer waste and, on the other hand, highlight the importance of taking action against the current challenges related to the degradation of natural ecosystems.’
The 30-litre container is made from recycled polyethylene, making it highly resistant to damage and weather conditions. The bin can collect up to 1.4 tonnes of waste per year and does not pose a threat to marine organisms – the two-centimetre holes allow small fish and shrimp to freely swim in and out of it.
The goal of the Re:Generacja programme is to help restore degraded ecosystems, but also to protect those that are still in good condition. As part of the nationwide initiative, institutions related to nature conservation, as well as representatives of businesses, local governments, and local non-governmental organisations, are invited to cooperate.
More about the initiative link.
Driving the future
Driving the future
Żabka is active on many fronts in pursuing our key priority of reducing fleet emissions. As well as now having 900 full-hybrid and 300 plug-in hybrid vehicles in our fleet, we aim to replace a further 200+ cars over the next two years and are building a charging infrastructure across our main sites and many employee homes.
Changing driver behaviour is another focus, and initiatives underway include our ‘Electromobility Ambassadors’ and ‘Drive the Future’ programmes. Drive the Future is all about enabling our people to drive more safely and with minimised environmental impact by gaining insight into their driving styles.
The programme uses the Cartrack GPS module to analyse the average fuel consumption, speed and driving dynamics of different drivers, to see whether their style is safe, acceptable or unacceptable.
It also enables people to see where they rank alongside their colleagues. It’s creating real positive change: not only are attractive prizes and the title of ‘Eco-Driving Champion’ up for grabs. It also makes our people compete to be the best – and that’s making a real difference.
Driven to create a cleaner future
Driven to create a cleaner future
For an organisation of Żabka Group’s scale and scope, a continual focus on modernising and decarbonising the vehicle fleet is an essential aspect of minimising our environmental impact.
So during 2024 we made sure that we in no way slowed down our efforts to reduce our carbon footprint, maintaining the focus on own fleet of vehicles of our most mature unit - Żabka Polska. This involved continuing our electrification programme through the ongoing replacement of diesel and petrol-powered engines with battery-powered, plug-in hybrid and full-hybrid equivalents. As a result, by year-end our fleet contained no fewer than 30 EV, 900 full hybrid and 300 plug-in hybrid vehicles. Moreover, all our EV vehicles are driven by our 'Electromobility Ambassadors', a selected group of employees who, after undergoing special training, have been the first in the organisation to switch to electric cars. Their task is to promote electromobility and encourage other employees to low-emission vehicles.
That wasn’t all. We also installed more electric-vehicle chargers wherever they are most useful and accessible – at our logistics centres, our HQ and even at our employees’ homes.
In 2024 as well we introduced 'Podwózka', our dedicated carsharing app for employees. It enables our people to offer a lift to others when planning a business trip, so that they can travel in line with our Mobility Policy, having pleasant company and benefiting the environment. And we continued our exceptionally successful ‘Drive the Future’ programme, launched in 2023, which provides the insight into the driving styles and habits of our people that means we can help them drive more safely and with minimised environmental impact.
Competing to be the best
This highly effective initiative uses the Cartrack GPS module, first to analyse several aspects of driver behaviour and then to rank employees by their safety and efficiency performance. This has created genuine competition among our people to be the best, resulting in significant gains in the quality of driving across the organisation.
Of course, our work to create and operate a low-emission vehicle fleet is not limited to our largest subsidiary, Żabka Polska. Our Lite e-Commerce business exists to develop and operate our fast, express q-commerce grocery home-delivery service (operated via the Żabka Jush app) and e-commerce activities (available thru Żabka Jush app and our www.delio.com.pl website).
And it's our low carbon fleet that's worth mentioning, with all 82 scooters used by our delivery bikers now being electric. The fleet also contains 64 bicycles, ensuring that we can always make rapid local deliveries in the most environmentally-friendly way possible.
According to Joanna Kasowska, Żabka Group Quality Standards & Climate Protection Director ‘The hunt for continuous improvement is never over. We are constantly looking ahead, searching for new technologies, analysing their impact on the organization, people and the environment, in order to build a better business from both the cost and environmental perspective. It’s an essential focus area for our business.’
Digital transformation revolutionises ESG data-management
Digital transformation revolutionises ESG data-management
We at Żabka were excited during 2023 to take a significant step forward in the digital transformation of our ESG-reporting capabilities.
Our aim has long been to create and manage a transparent and simplified system for collecting, sharing, displaying and analysing our ESG data. To do so, we have now implemented a comprehensive digital system for managing all data relating to our carbon-footprint.
This is a customised toolkit that brings the highly advanced Microsoft Sustainability Manager solution together with our own data-aggregation application and personalised Power BI reports. This has created an integrated platform that meets all our requirements for better insight, understanding and reporting needs.
Reporting ‘at a new level’
According to Katarzyna Wanat-Lipowska, Head of Decarbonisation, ‘Introducing MSM has immediately taken all decarbonisation reporting across Żabka to an entirely new level. Most important, such a detailed and above all easy-to-access view of all relevant data means we can easily identify any areas that need our attention. Above all, it means that we can respond fast and confidently to any situation where we see an increase in emissions. Furthermore, easy-to-read dashboards are available to all members of our Decarbonisation Team, which enables everyone involved to track changes in emissions and see their impact on the implementation of our decarbonisation strategy.’ As Katarzyna points out, there is a great value in the commitment that the project has enabled: ‘This gives everyone a sense of ownership and engagement in the implementation of our Responsibility Strategy.’
A comprehensive system
Now, we have in place across Żabka a comprehensive reporting and monitoring system that involves key internal stakeholders from across the business. As Katarzyna explains, this goes beyond simply spotting problematic situations. ‘It gives us the opportunity to collect data even more transparently, with greater quality and track our strategic progress, using customised solutions such as our own ESG app and dashboards. This is a very important step forward.’
Working together to create innovation as part of Relooped
Working together to create innovation as part of Relooped
At Żabka, we are constantly looking for innovations and technologies that will allow us to create convenient and responsible solutions. For this reason, we are delighted to have joined a broad cooperation, involving not only commercial companies, but also scientific institutions. Our common goal is to develop innovative solutions that will serve both our customers and the planet.
As part of our commitment to the RETAIL RELOOPED project, managed by BOFA, we actively cooperate with partners from various sectors - from retail, through the waste industry, to science. We strive to create food packaging that will be not only functional but also environmentally friendly.
This international initiative, supported by funds from the Interreg South Baltic EU program, allows us to actively work on developing new, sustainable solutions. Thanks to the involvement of waste industry institutions, the world of science, but also retail chains, such as Żabka, it is possible to test innovative circular solutions on many levels, also with the active participation of users. As a supporting partner, we will engage our customers in testing innovative packaging in selected network stores, which serve as "living labs".
Our commitment to the RELOOPED project not only emphasizes our innovation, but above all, it is an expression of our responsibility - one of the main values of our company. This cooperation fits into the Żabka Responsibility Strategy, specifically into pillar 04 Green Planet, which assumes active action for sustainable development. We are proud to be part of this initiative, which contributes to building a sustainable future. We believe that through cooperation with other companies and scientific institutions, we can jointly develop solutions that will be good for both our customers and the planet.
Closing the loop in two Polish cities
Closing the loop in two Polish cities
A key area of focus for Żabka during 2023 was promoting the uptake of the principles of the circular economy among our customers. As such, involving them directly in our efforts to collect recyclable packaging was an especially important priority under our Responsibility Strategy’s ‘Green planet’ pillar.
One of the primary new means of making it happen is the ‘Green Renewal’ campaign we piloted during the year in Zielona Góra and in Bydgoszcz collaboration with the Bydgoszcz City Hall. As part of this, customers in those two Polish cities can return to our stores PET plastic bottles with a capacity of up to 2 litres, or metal cans of up to 1 litre.
Rewards for making returns
As part of the test each customer returning a single-use beverage container receives żapps points or a discount on the next drink in a PET bottle or can.
According to Krzysztof Jańczak, a store franchisee in Zielona Góra, ‘Everything to do with ecology, including green waste collection, has always been important to me. So I was really happy to hear about Green Renewal, as were my customers. The response to the new initiative was fantastic in just the first few days, and I look forward to it continuing to improve as we develop it further.’
We also encourage our customers to return empty plastic bottles and beverage cans by providing a total of more than 70 ‘EKOmat’ waste-collection machines. They are located on the premises of selected Żabka stores or in their direct surroundings. In addition to Bydgoszcz and Zielona Góra – where, as part of the "Green Renewal" pilot project, beverage packaging collection is carried out both using waste-collection machines and directly at the shop assistant - customers can also use ‘EKOmat’ in Łódź, Poznań and Warsaw.
Strengthening environmental awareness
Joanna Kasowska, Director of Quality and Food Management Standards, is excited by the pilot. ‘Responsibility is one of the key values embedded in our DNA at Żabka Group,’ she says. ‘As well as making life easier for our customers, we want also to positively impact our company's stakeholders and the community as well as the natural environment. So an important aspect of the pilot is how it strengthens consumers' environmental awareness, enabling them to dispose appropriately of packaging waste and helping them to understand the idea of recycling as a step towards establishing the circular economy.’
Reusable cups cut disposable waste and bring benefits to customers
Reusable cups cut disposable waste and bring benefits to customers
At Żabka, we have long served 100% Italian-roasted Arabica coffee and other hot drinks through our stores. The quantities involved are significant, now totalling around 24 million cups sold every year through more than 10,000 outlets, as Żabka makes up the largest coffee chain in Poland.
In an important new move in 2023, we acted to reduce disposable waste while simultaneously cutting costs for consumers through the introduction of our ‘green reusable cups’ (#Zielonykubek wielorazowy) scheme.
Safe, recyclable, reusable…
This involves customers buying a safe, recyclable and reusable cup, made from natural raw materials and FSC®-certified wood, for PLN49.99. Then, every time they use it, or other reusable cup to buy a hot drink in a Żabka store, they receive a PLN 1 discount.
According to Joanna Kasowska, Director of Quality and Food Management Standards at Żabka, ‘This is the way, we want to encourage our customers to foster a culture of reusing objects and reduce the use of these disposable items. It is a simple way to actively participate in the fight against environmental pollution and promote circular solutions. By supporting such initiatives, as consumers, we can also contribute to changing behaviour and raising awareness about environmental protection’
Protecting natural resources, nature and the environment
Żabka aims to ensure that wherever possible our coffee sales have a broadly positive impact. Our coffee is certified by the Rainforest Alliance, meaning we and our customers support the rights and wellbeing of farmers while protecting natural resources, nature and the environment. With our new scheme in place, we’re set collectively to prevent many, many thousands of cups from becoming disposable waste. Our record is selling 72 cups of coffee in one minute, so bringing more and more people on to the scheme will make a very substantial difference.
Using electric vehicles to reduce carbon footprint
Using electric vehicles to reduce carbon footprint
An essential task that we at Żabka Group have set ourselves as part of our decarbonisation plan is to work towards reducing emissions across our value chain. During the years since 2021, we’ve therefore been following the route set out in the plan to reduce the environmental impact of our vehicle fleet.
Our actions were focused more sharply than ever in 2023 on hitting our target of reducing close to 0.6k tCO₂ in 2026 from the current forecast by replacing 203 vehicles between 2024 and 2026. According to the Head of Indirect Procurement & Administration, Agnieszka Przybylska, ‘We’ve taken several important steps towards reducing our carbon footprint particularly in those cities and regions that are most exposed to air pollution.’
She highlights various initiatives across the business, including the use by the Żabka’s field salesforce of 500 Toyota Yaris Cross hybrid cars in their day-to-day work, which of necessity involves much driving. These make up a substantial number of the 900 full-hybrid and 300 plug-in hybrid vehicles in our fleet.
Infrastructure is clearly another essential element of any successful programme to encourage and enable the uptake of electric vehicles, which is why we have invested in electric charging stations at our Poznań headquarters and logistics centres in Nadarzyn and Plewiska. Perhaps even more important, we’ve also installed electric charging points at the homes of employees using electric cars and plug-in hybrids.
We also operate more than 30 zero-emission fully electric cars, which are provided to those employers who’ve voluntarily joined the company’s ‘Electromobility Ambassadors’ programme – a special initiative that started in 2023, in which our volunteers test and champion the benefits of electric vehicles to their colleagues. Anna Sobczyńska, Lead of Brand Strategy explains how joining the ambassador programme has influenced her daily routines, ‘Since joining the Electromobility Ambassadors and switching to an electric car, my daily commute has greatly improved, primarily due to the availability of free parking spots, the use of bus lanes and the convenience of having charging stations at the office parking lot. The transition to an electric vehicle was surprisingly easy thanks to to the training organized by the administration department, but also the community of ambassadors who are willing to share experiences and good practices.’ As Anna points out, ‘Being part of the ambassador programme not only provides comfort in the daily commute, but also a sense of uniqueness and setting the direction for positive change in the organisation.’
Michal Hodowany, Lead of Transport Department proves that electric vehicles are not just for office workers: ‘This is already the 11th company car in my career. I estimate that during business trips I have traveled close to 1.1 million km, however, these 15,000 km that I covered with an electric car is special. Since I joined the Electromobility Ambassadors, business trips have become more pleasant. Thanks to the fact that I don't hear the engine while driving, I can enjoy the silence, and planning charging and stops before setting off on a trip has made my journeys more peaceful.’
Every Ambassador undergoes special training to help them make the transition to electric vehicles as easy as possible. We also plan to develop mentors on the subject, who will inspire more people with their knowledge and enthusiasm.
This is far from an isolated initiative. ‘Over the last two years, we’ve also trained more than 700 people in economical driving, as well as providing safe-driving tuition,’ Agnieszka adds.
Franchisees compete to reduce energy consumption and cut carbon footprint
Franchisees compete to reduce energy consumption and cut carbon footprint
Following our ambitious goals set out in our Responsibility Strategy, we continued during 2023 to carry out the actions defined in our Decarbonisation Plan.
Obviously, given the nature of our business and the way we are structured, the plan’s scope extends far beyond our own operations to embrace our network of more than 10,000 stores. With a value chain of this sheer scale, it is inevitable that we have the capability to deliver a significant positive impact if we can come up with the right initiatives to save energy across sufficient numbers of outlets.
It was with this in mind that on 1 June 2023 we launched a competition among our franchisees to see by how much we could collectively reduce energy consumption from 2022 levels across the store network.
Efficient and effective
According to Łukasz Kawka, Head of New Technologies and Development Department, ‘We decided the summer was the best time to attempt this: many customers come to us just to buy cool drinks or ice creams. Along with the need for air-conditioning when the weather’s hot, this elevates the use of refrigeration. That makes it really important to ensure that fridges, freezers and aircon units are all in good condition to be at their most efficient and effective, and that external store doors are kept shut.’
We invited franchisees to commit to using at least 10% less electricity than they did between 1 June and 31 August 2022. To encourage them, we offered a range of prizes, including cash prizes and attractive store amenities such as electronic price tags, a new Merrychef oven, a new coffee machine and a deep cleaning of the store.
Rising to the challenge
These, allied with the sense of challenge and the desire to cut energy usage, persuaded franchisees running a total of close to 3,000 stores to qualify for the competition. We gave them all guidance on how to achieve the biggest savings, from setting the aircon to 23 degrees, closing the store doors on days with an external temperature of 27 degrees or more, maintaining air flow around freezers and refrigerators, regularly cleaning ventilation grilles and more.
Overall, it was a highly successful initiative, with an energy saving of close to 1.9GWh over the three-month period. As a result, we made awards to 126 top-performing franchisees. And we ran a second edition of the competition between November and December, which in turn delivered a further saving. In total, through the two editions of the competition together we have saved an impressive sum of over 2.7GWh. With energy savings of this magnitude, we managed to avoid emissions of 1 957,56 tCO2 in our Scope 3.
As Katarzyna Wanat-Lipowska, Head of Decarbonisation says, ‘It is very satisfying to witness such large reductions, and we are proud of our franchisees. The result that has been achieved is the outcome of changing everyday practices for the better. This reminds us that participating in the competition is not only about attractive prizes but also about reducing the carbon footprint of our value chain to help make life better for everyone.’
Driving new efficiencies in our Transport Department
Driving new efficiencies in our Transport Department
Transport has always had an essential role to play in our value chain at Żabka Group – and during 2023, it once again had a key role in our decarbonisation efforts.
The sheer scale of our logistics operations means that everything we can do to reduce the environmental impact of it will have a significant positive outcome. That’s why, over recent years, we have been steadily increasing the proportion of trucks operating in deliveries to our stores that meet the stringent demands of the Euro 5 and Euro 6 emission standards, up from just over half in 2020 to reach 76.61% during 2023.
Reducing the use of dry ice
This shift provides the background to a range of further initiatives designed to reduce the carbon emissions in our logistics. By the end of 2023, more than half of our stores were receiving dedicated refrigerated and frozen deliveries via an expanded fleet of refrigerated vehicles, which is enabling us to significantly reduce the potentially harmful to the climate use of dry ice in our logistics.
‘We achieved many ambitious goals in 2023, all thanks to the determination and professionalism of our exceptional transport team,’ says Director of Logistics Katarzyna Słabowska. ‘I’d also like to thank our warehousing colleagues for their help in meeting shared goals. We’ll achieve even more together in 2024.’
Small gesture, great impact
Small gesture, great impact
It’s a remarkable fact that a returnable glass bottle is used on average between 15 and 26 times, significantly reducing the carbon footprint during its lifecycle.
This is why during summer 2022 Żabka Poland ran an educational programme to encourage customers to bring empty returnable beer bottles back to our 8,400+ stores. Anyone doing so received a 50 gr price reduction on a full replacement bottle, up to a total of 20 bottles per transaction. We noticed year-on-year increase in returns by 10 p.p.
This is particularly heartening because the positive impact of any
increase in the re-use of glass bottles is significant. According to The Union of Brewing Industry Employers – Polish Breweries, producing one ton of glass consumes on average 800kg of sand, 280kg of calcium, 230kg of soda and 30kg of dyes. It also takes an average 1.1 MW of power per bottle. The fact that we at Żabka reach millions of customers across Poland every day enables us to have a significant impact on consumer habits across many areas. This promotion shows how important even small gestures can be to the environment when made en masse.
The second life of packaging
The second life of packaging
As part of our ‘Green Renewal’ pilot project, implemented in partnership with the Bydgoszcz City Hall, our customers can return disposable beverage plastic and aluminium packaging in 120 Żabka stores across the city. The collected raw materials will be used to create new packaging, thanks to which less waste will be sent to landfill. The campaign also aims to build environmental awareness among customers and develop the habit of returning plastic and aluminium beverage packaging. Our advantage lies in the proximity of the stores: the multiple collection points, and the ease and speed involved in returning the packaging. We are also rewarding customers for their pro-ecological attitude: for every plastic bottle or aluminium can returned, they receive 50 żapps. There are two ways to return packaging: via special butelkomat machines for selective waste collection or it is possible to return the packaging directly to the salesperson, who will also award the bonus żapps.
Circularity
Circularity
Our suppliers of goods and services are responsible for 68% of scope 3 carbon footprint emissions, which is why we involve partners from various industries in search of innovative solutions to reduce emissions in the value chain. An example is cooperation with the carbon neutral brand Goodvalley, whose products have a zero carbon footprint, and Grupa Żywiec, which uses only electricity from renewable sources in its production process. We also look for emission reduction opportunities through convenienct services, as we reduce emissions through delivery to pickup points in cooperation with InPost and other logistics operators in Poland. Delivering a parcel to Żabka generates a lower carbon footprint than direct delivery to the customer personal address. By encouraging conscious food choices, we are also expanding the range of plantbased products as an excellent alternative to animal products. We have introduced products of such brands as Garden Gourmet, Dobra Kaloria or Alpro. In 2021, we also created our own 100% plant-based brand, Plant Hunter.
Lowering GHG emissions in own operations
Lowering GHG emissions in own operations
We approach the issue of reducing CO2 emissions in a comprehensive manner. In 2022, are focus was on driving down emissions in own vehicle fleet and energy efficiency.
We progressed with decarbonisation of own fleet of around 1,600 passenger cars by taking on 500 new Toyota Yaris Cross hybrids. They are used by field employees who historically consume significant amount of fuel due their type of work. In addition, we have invested in our own charging stations for electric cars at our Poznan headquarters and logistics centres in Nadarzyn and Plewiska to support employees traveling with electric vehicles. In addition, we organized a competition for energy efficiency ideas for franchisees and employees, which received 999 entries, mainly related to areas of equipment, lighting and heating. We also initiated the construction of two photovoltaic power plants in the Gliwice and Radzymin distribution centres. For consecutive year, 100% of electricity in own operations comes from renewable sources.
Reducing environmental impact across the value chain
Reducing environmental impact across the value chain
In 2022, we introduced the first climate neutral product of our own brand - Od Nowa water. By calculating its carbon footprint, we managed to ascertain the emissions that arise in the product life cycle. We then reduced the carbon footprint as much as possible - using bottles from recycling, which have a lower carbon footprint than bottles made from virgin materials and supplying energy from renewable sources for a half of the Żabka stores. However, it was not possible to eliminate all the greenhouse gas emissions arising from the life cycle of Od Nowa water, so we neutralised the remaining emissions by purchasing offset credits. Apart from environmental impact of products sold in Żabka stores, we also care about the place itself. In 2022 in Poznań, Żabka opens its first Eko Smart store - a laboratory of ecological innovations enriched with smart solutions, e.g. green energy – PV panels, new innovative perovskite photovoltaic installation on the wall, refrigerators with glycol-filled shelves for better efficiency. On top of that, the entire wall is covered with plants to produce oxygen and digest harmful substances. Customers are also encouraged to use butelkomat - a machine for collecting plastic packaging and cans for recycling.
Electric vehicle fleet in the pilot phase
Electric vehicle fleet in the pilot phase
We are implementing a pilot phase of the programme under which heavy goods vehicles will be procured in partnership with two entities. Since 2019, we have been testing zero-emission commercial vehicles in cooperation with the Volkswagen Group. We use four electric ABT transporters and two e-Crafter vans. We have also invested in our own electric car charging stations at the distribution centres in Nadarzyn and Plewiska, and in our headquarters. In 2021, we started cooperation with Volvo Polska, testing a zero-emission refrigerated Volvo FL Electric truck. It is used for delivering goods to stores in the Silesia region. It is the first fully electric distribution truck in Poland that was for working in the city. We are also gradually modernising our fleet of passenger cars and are conducting tests aimed at replacing combustion engine vehicles with their electric and hybrid counterparts. New electric and hybrid cars reduce greenhouse gas emissions and noise levels, so that they can be successfully used in clean transport zones.
We joined the Polish Plastic Pact
We joined the Polish Plastic Pact
The pact is part of the global Plastics Pact Network operated by the Ellen MacArthur Foundation. More than four hundred companies responsible for introducing 20% of packaging to the global markets, institutional stakeholders, non-governmental and industry organisations, as well as scientific centres and investors participate in the initiative globally. The aim of the Polish Plastic Pact is to change the current model of using plastics in packaging materials, to ensure that the principles of circular economy are followed. Members of the Pact shall take effort to increase the recycling rate and, consequently, reduce the carbon footprint. They also commit to initiate consumer awareness projects and contribute to increasing the level of correct segregation of packaging materials. The objectives set by the signatories of the Pact for the period until 2025 reach beyond the legal regulations in force in Poland.
We have implemented the Circularity Policy for Plastic
We have implemented the Circularity Policy for Plastic
It allows our business partners to be involved in activities that maximise our impact on ensuring circularity of plastic use throughout the entire value chain. The policy will be implemented gradually, in cooperation with all business partners. It is based on the original green circulation model, which provides guidance on responsible resource management in seven areas: eco-design, resource-conscious creation, sustainable distribution, responsible sales, conscious consumption, efficient collection as well as comprehensive recovery and recycling. We have established a set of clear principles we follow in our endeavors towards circularity, and we are applying accountability rules to the entire process – from design, to ensuring a second life and revitalising the environment.
We have developed our Eco-design Policy
We have developed our Eco-design Policy
The Policy serves as a roadmap, presenting clear rules for designing and selecting suitable raw materials for the packaging of own brand products and for materials used in stores. It is based on four principles: loop, reduce, simplify and communicate. We reduce the weights and volumes, as well as promote reusable types of packaging. When designing packaging, we place an emphasis on the choice of materials and the use of recycled products. Components that are preferred in recycling processes are given priority as well. We simplify the form of packaging by ensuring its shape allows the product to be emptied. Using a system of pictograms placed on the packaging, we offer consumers advice on which fraction of waste should it be disposed of to after the contents have been used. In accordance with the Policy, we avoid contrast colours, soot-based pigments and solid, inseparable labels made of materials other than the packaging itself. All these measures make the packaging easier to recycle.
Eliminating plastic and foil packaging
Eliminating plastic and foil packaging
We have replaced plastic coffee cup lids and shopping bags with their equivalents made of paper with the FSC certificate. Such an approach ensures that at least one new tree is planted for each that has been felled. The paper used in the manufacture of shopping bags and coffee cup lids decomposes naturally over the course of several weeks. Due to these changes, we have reduced the use of plastic by approximately one thousand tonnes per year. We are developing solutions with our suppliers to reduce the use of foil packaging in our products. Thanks to cooperation with Carlsberg Poland, we introduced to the market six-packs of beer relying on Snap Pack technology. Instead of wrapping cans with foil, they are attached to each with the use of adhesive. This reduces the consumption of foil by as much as 82% compared to standard packaging.
TCFD methodology
Digital transformation revolutionises ESG data-management
How does decarbonisation work?
Selected activities
What goes around in a circular economy?
Closing the loop in two Polish cities
Selected activities
Using electric vehicles to reduce carbon footprint
Driving the future
Driving new efficiencies in our Transport Department
Franchisees compete to reduce energy consumption and cut carbon footprint
Reusable cups cut disposable waste and consumer costs
How does decarbonisation work?
Strategic commitments in Żabka Polska
Reduction of share of virgin plastic in weight of own brand packaging
Achieve packaging neutrality for own brand products
100% of own brand products packaging suitable for recycling processes
Reduce total Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions (without offset) by 25% (vs. 2020)
Reduce franchisee greenhouse gas emissions intensity by 70% (Scope 3, vs. 2020)
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We make it easy for customers to change their habits for the better. read more >
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We make a positive impact with entrepreneurs on the economy. read more >
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We shape a purpose-led trusted organisation of empowered people. read more >
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We minimise our environmental impact across the whole value chain. read more >
