Driving sustainable retail in Brazil

Avenida, part of Pepkor’s expanding retail network, is making a significant impact on environmental sustainability. As one of Brazil’s top 10 retail chains, Avenida has taken proactive steps to reduce waste and enhance operational efficiency. A key initiative is its structured recycling programme for paper and cardboard packaging, delivering measurable environmental benefits.

Measurable impact
Avenida’s recycling journey began five years ago, with a commitment to embedding waste reduction into its operations. Over time, the programme has expanded significantly, driving both environmental and operational gains.

From October 2023 to September 2024, Avenida recycled 620.5 tonnes of paper and cardboard, generating BRL99 675.35 in value.

Over the past 12 months, total recycling reached 613.7 tonnes, up 22.8%from 499.6 tonnes in 2023. Between October and December 2024, 173.4 tonnes were recycled, demonstrating the programme’s steady expansion.

A system built for success
The recycling programme is structured, efficient and fully integrated into operations. A comprehensive set of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) has been rolled out across all stores, ensuring:

• proper wastepaper collection and handling;
• optimised transportation schedules; and
• compliance with sustainability targets.

A key efficiency driver is Avenida’s partnership with a supplier that both sells and buys recycled materials, creating a cost-effective and logistically streamlined closed-loop system. This approach ensures that waste management remains both practical and financially viable.

To maintain operational efficiency, all recycling is measured at the distribution centre, where space is limited. This ensures there is no material buildup and that recycling remains a continuous, structured process.

Beyond recycling: Practical environmental initiatives
Avenida’s commitment to environmental responsibility extends beyond recycling. The retailer has established structured initiatives that are embedded in daily operations, ensuring sustainability remains a continuous effort across its stores.

These initiatives include integrating waste-conscious practices into routine operations, improving resource efficiency and making responsible choices in store materials. One example is the use of eco-friendly cleaning products, supporting Avenida’s sustainability objectives while maintaining high standards for store upkeep.

Efficiency remains a key focus across Avenida’s operations, with a commitment to streamlining processes to minimise waste and optimise resources. Rather than introducing isolated initiatives, the company evaluates and refines existing practices to ensure long-term environmental benefits without compromising operational effectiveness.

As part of its broader sustainability strategy, Avenida is assessing renewable energy solutions to further reduce its environmental footprint. Solar power has emerged as a key area of focus, offering the potential to enhance energy efficiency across its stores. By evaluating the feasibility of solar installations, the company is working to lower electricity costs while reducing its reliance on conventional energy sources.

Another step towards more environmentally conscious retail operations is the transition to sugarcane-based bags, which help reduce reliance on traditional plastic. By adopting this alternative, Avenida aligns with consumer expectations and global trends in sustainable packaging.

These initiatives support Pepkor’s broader environmental goals, reinforcing Avenida’s role in responsible and efficient retail operations in Brazil.