Loblaw, Flashfood mark milestone in partnership to reduce food waste

Loblaw and Flashfood have diverted some 40 million pounds of food from landfills since the companies first partnered in 2019.

Flashfood connects consumers to discounted food nearing its expiration date. Purchases are made through the app, and customers can pick up their order from the Flashfood Zones in-store.

The program is integrated across 720 participating Loblaw stores and franchises, including No Frills, Maxi, Real Canadian Superstore, Atlantic Superstore, Loblaws, Real Canadian Wholesale Club, Zehrs, Independent, Provigo and Dominion. 

"As a purpose-led organization, Loblaw is firmly committed to helping Canadians live life well. By partnering with Flashfood, we are reducing our impact on the environment while also helping our customers save money," said Robert Sawyer, chief operating officer, Loblaw Companies Limited, in a statement. "This is an incredible milestone, made possible thanks to industry leaders like Flashfood, and we look forward to the ongoing impact of our partnership."

Over the past two years, more than 1.6 million users in Canada have turned to the app to shop for groceries. The 40 million pounds of food diverted to date equates to 76 million pounds of carbon dioxide equivalent.

"Loblaw was our first partner and continues to be our biggest partner," said Flashfood founder and CEO Josh Domingues in a statement. "The 40 million pounds of food saved milestone underscores the ability of our mobile marketplace to deliver on our mission to reduce food waste and connect families with more affordable groceries. Loblaw is an industry leader in food waste reduction and this milestone is just the beginning of the impact we'll continue to make for Canadian shoppers and families."