#Japan #Tokyo #Food Waste #Seven-Eleven #Soft Drinks

Tackling the Transportation Driver Shortage and Reducing Food Waste

In a significant move, Seven-Eleven Japan (Headquartered in Chiyoda, Tokyo, President: Tomohiro Akutsu) is set to introduce measures aimed at mitigating food waste in the delivery of soft drinks. Starting from July 15, 2023, the company will gradually implement these initiatives, positioning itself as a pioneer in the retail sector.

The retail industry faces a pressing issue stemming from transportation practices that are often driven by outdated rules and standards. This results in unnecessary long-distance truck transportation aimed at preventing reverse freshness, which can be detrimental to both operational efficiency and the environment. Highlighting these challenges, the "Social Issues Response Research Group" formed in November 2022 by leading beverage firms including Asahi Beverages, Ito En, Kirin Beverage, Coca-Cola Bottlers Japan, and Suntory Beverage & Food, has called for urgent action to address logistics issues and the growing problem of food loss.

In response to this call, Seven-Eleven Japan's new initiative will allow for deliveries with a reversed freshness within a one-month timeframe, which is still within the necessary delivery deadline. This approach aims to not only streamline truck transportation but also reduce excess inventory at distribution centers, ultimately easing the burden on logistics.

Despite these changes, the deadlines for deliveries and sales will remain consistent, ensuring that products continue to reach stores in peak condition. The company anticipates that through this initiative, there will be a reduction of approximately 3,000 trucks used for transporting beverage products.

This reduction in transportation trucks is expected to lead to several benefits, including:

• - Improved working conditions for drivers
• - Decreased CO2 emissions from transportation
• - A decrease in the use of finite petroleum resources

Ultimately, these efforts are aligned with the company's commitment to fostering a sustainable society and environment. Furthermore, Seven-Eleven Japan is dedicated to continuing its work to solve logistics challenges in the future.

This initiative represents a crucial step forward for the retail sector in addressing significant logistical challenges while promoting a sustainable future. The proactive measures taken by Seven-Eleven Japan set a commendable precedent for other retail companies to follow in safeguarding our food resources and aligning their operations with environmental sustainability goals.