Company Shop Group today revealed that it redistributed 113 million products in 2024, saving UK shoppers £130 million on their food bills – up by £9 million on last year.

 

These new statistics were published as part of Company Shop Group’s latest impact report, launched [today] to mark the start of Food Waste Action Week (17-23 March). And with 10.7 million tonnes of food being wasted in the UK each year – and nearly 10 million people living in food poverty – the need for solutions has never been greater.

 

In 2024, Company Shop Group redistributed over 46,000 tonnes of food and drink – the equivalent of 110 million meals – to individuals and families across the UK, the same as feeding the entire population 1.6 times. This also had a significant environmental impact, saving 124,000 tonnes of CO₂ emissions, the equivalent of removing over 72,000 cars from the road for a year. By preventing waste and promoting a circular economy, the Group plays a crucial role in creating a more sustainable future.

 

Through its unique and scalable model, Company Shop Group provided tailored surplus solutions to over 800 retail and manufacturing partners last year, helping them manage surplus efficiently at every stage of the product lifecycle. By investing in problem-solving capabilities, in the past three years, the Group relabelled 55 million products and washed 7.8 million bottles, items that would have otherwise gone to waste. The partnership between Company Shop Group and its stock partners helps reduce waste, recoup value, and enhance environmental and social responsibility. In 2024, Company Shop Group paid back £49 million to its partners taking the Group’s total financial return to the industry in the last five years to a staggering £188 million.

 

Community Shop, the social enterprise arm of Company Shop Group and the UK’s first social supermarket, worked to tackle food insecurity in communities experiencing social inequality. Through its Community stores, members saved £11.8 million on shopping, Community Kitchens fed 120,000 children for free, and Community Hubs delivered 54,000 development programmes, helping 3,100 people into higher education and 2,800 people through our progress academy.

 

Chris Burns, Managing Director of Company Shop Group, said: “Joining Company Shop Group has been an incredible journey, and I am so proud to be part of an organisation that transforms surplus into meaningful impact. Over the past year, we’ve supported more families, saved more products from going to waste and   strengthened our partnerships across the industry.

 

This report highlights not just the numbers but the lives we’ve changed along the way. We’re committed to doing more in the coming year, because every surplus product saved is an opportunity to create value for people, planet, and industry.”

 

Gary Stott, Executive Chairman of Community Shop said: “In 2024, Community Shops around the country have continued to deliver life-changing support to individuals, families and communities. This year we launched our white paper on the future of food aid in the UK, which demonstrated our deep commitment to creating long-lasting change and tackling food insecurity at its roots. We’re equipped and ready to drive this mission forward in the years to come.”

 

These statistics, along with many others, are available in Company Shop Group’s new impact report which can be downloaded here

 

The Oakland Foundation, a children’s charity, is pleased to confirm that it has secured new business funding for the upcoming year.

Supporting disadvantaged children and young people across England and Wales, the Oakland Foundation, founded by total supply chain solution provider Oakland International, has secured new business funding from Avanti Print and Packaging and Coolways UK.

Oakland Foundation Trustee Mark Williams commented: “We’re absolutely delighted to have gained additional funding from Avanti Print and Packaging and Coolways UK.

“Their financial commitment will ensure even more vulnerable children and their families this year will have access to opportunities previously out of reach due to financial constraints or disadvantage.

“We are sincerely grateful for their support and that of our founding sponsor, Oakland International, as together their contributions will ensure that those in greatest need receive the highest level of funding possible, and we deeply appreciate their generosity. It’s wonderful to be working with like-minded, compassionate, and forward-thinking people.”

With 2025 already proving to be a busy year, efforts continue to ensure the charity maximises new opportunities and funding partnerships. These developments represent an exciting phase for the organisation.

Director of Avanti Print and Packaging Holly Bennett stated: “Avanti Print and Packaging are excited to join in Partnership with the Oakland Foundation, it is an honour to align our business with such an incredible Charity. Together we aim to build a solid alliance and create more opportunities in Education, Health, and Sport to support the next generation.”

Director of Coolways and Avanti Paul Elliott added: “Coolways-UK are absolutely delighted to align ourselves with the Oakland Foundation and their work going forward, and we are thrilled to be supporting their aims given our history with Oakland International and the wider family of companies to be found within their locations.

“We have always been made to feel part of the family and it is a natural progression of Coolways-UK to formally join and represent the aims of the Foundation with gusto.”

The Oakland Foundation offers grants for children and youth programs focused on education, health and nutrition, and sports, for children under 16 and their families. The charity aims to enable every child, regardless of background or ability, to participate.

Jess Fine Foods will be making a return to the International Food and Drink Event (IFE) 2025, taking place from 17th to 19th March at ExCeL London. They will be showcasing their signature German-style hot dog range at stand 3280, offering attendees a taste of their expertly crafted, UK-made products.

A Taste of Tradition: German-Style Hot Dogs with a Modern Twist

Jess Fine Foods take pride in their commitment to quality and authentic flavours. Their gourmet hot dog selection is a testament to this dedication, featuring a mouthwatering assortment that caters to diverse palates. Attendees can expect to sample:

● 150g Krakauer Bacon Frankfurter – A smoky, savoury delight.

● 150g Käsekrainer Cheese Frankfurter – Infused with rich, melted cheese.

● 150g Jalapeño & Cheese Frankfurter – A bold and spicy favourite.

● 150g Chilli Beef Hot Dog – Packed with robust flavours.

● 150g Bratwurst – A true classic, perfected.

Whether served as a bar snack, an indulgent diner meal, or a gourmet addition to food service menus, these premium hot dogs promise to elevate any dining experience.

Join Jess Fine Foods at IFE 2025

Industry professionals, food enthusiasts, and hospitality leaders are invited to visit Jess Fine Foods at IFE 2025 for an insight into their latest offerings. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore their innovative range and discuss potential collaborations.

Secure your free ticket now by registering online. For those unable to attend but eager to learn more about the product range, inquiries can be directed to sales@jessfinefoods.co.uk.

Jess Fine Foods looks forward to welcoming you to an unforgettable culinary experience at IFE 2025!