Solar energy powers Fermoy SuperValu van
Riordan’s SuperValu Fermoy is pleased to announce an almost 44% reduction in carbon outputs following the successful implementation of a number of sustainability measures in-store, including a new zero-emissions delivery van, with support from the Musgrave Sustainability Fund. This carbon reduction is equivalent to powering 77 homes annually.
The zero-emissions delivery van is powered by the store's 481 solar panels installed on its roof. Other sustainability measures in-store include LED lighting made from recycled materials such as CDs, doors on refrigeration and freezer upgrades, as well as the integration of electric shelf edge labels, removing the need for traditional paper label inserts across the store. The employment of eSELs technology has led to a reduction of 7,000 sheets of paper annually.
Committed to their sustainability targets, Riordan’s SuperValu Fermoy continues to invest and has plans to further upgrade their refrigeration units to run on environmentally friendly gases. A conscious supporter of local and Irish, Riordan’s SuperValu Fermoy is also expanding their local product offering and offer a ‘Taste of Local’ section within the store.
The store offers an enhanced organic section, loose fruit and veg, a plant-based section, and a ‘reduced to clear’ section to combat food waste, alongside segregated recycling bins for customer use. The store also provides their customers with bike racks and an electric car charger.
The store was shortlisted in the past for a Green Award for the role it has played in implementing sustainability measures, and Riordan’s SuperValu Fermoy are also active supporters of the local GAA club in Fermoy.
Michael Riordan, owner of SuperValu Fermoy, said the shop was 'acutely aware' of their environmental responsibilities.
“Making changes with how we operate such as our new electric delivery van has resulted in our store's reduced carbon outputs by almost half, a significant milestone for the business and one that will have tangible benefits for the local community. And we won’t stop there. As a community hub, we are committed to reaching Net Zero by 2040 and we will continue to enhance sustainability measures across the store.”