Alternatives to Plastic Packaging

Challenge Statement/Synopsis

Sobeys Inc. is seeking innovative, food-safe alternatives to plastic packaging for its Own brands and in-store produced food packaging. Solutions should align with the Canada Plastics Pact (CPP) and Canada’s Zero Plastic Waste Agenda by prioritizing materials and designs that are compostable, reusable, or derived from renewable and plastic-free sources, while enabling circular end-of-life pathways, such as reuse systems or certified composting. This initiative supports Sobeys’ commitment as a CPP partner to eliminate problematic plastics, innovate toward sustainable packaging, and help accelerate Canada’s transition to a circular economy.

Context

Sobeys currently relies on plastic packaging formats such as clamshells, foam trays, and film wraps across both in-store prepared products and its portfolio of private-label brands. These materials are widely used for baked goods, meat, seafood, produce, and prepared meals, which contribute to plastic waste and environmental impacts. By addressing these packaging formats, Sobeys has the opportunity to significantly reduce plastic use across high-volume product categories, while continuing to meet the food safety and performance standards customers expect.

Response Criteria

Innovations should follow the below criteria:

·         Food-safe; CFIA/Health Canada compliant

·         Maintains freshness, shelf life, and product integrity

·         Strong, durable & transport ready

·         Scalable and cost-feasible for retail applications

·         Confirmation of No PFAs and other harmful additives.

·         Solutions should meet established international standards (e.g., EU food-contact certifications, certified compostable) and demonstrate adaptability for compliance in the Canadian market.

 Out of Scope

·         Biodegradable plastics and additives (e.g., oxo-degradable, uncertified PLA etc.)

·         Multi-material & Difficult to recycle formats

The Opportunity

Sobeys Inc. is one of only two national Canadian grocers operating across all 10 provinces, with approximately 1,600 stores offering solution providers a unique opportunity to bring innovation to market at scale. Successful solutions may be piloted in both in-store prepared foods and private-label brands, with the potential for full rollout across Sobeys’ national retail network.

For EU-based SMEs, this challenge provides:

1. Market Entry & Growth: A pathway into the Canadian retail market.
2. Partnership Potential: Collaboration with a retailer committed to eliminating plastic waste and advancing the Canada Plastics Pact agenda.
3. Real-World Testing: Opportunities to validate solutions in live retail environments with direct consumer engagement.
4. Brand Visibility: Association with one of Canada’s most recognized retailers and sustainability leaders.

About Sobeys

Proudly Canadian, Sobeys Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Empire Company Limited, is one of Canada’s leading food retailers, with approximately $31 billion in annual sales and $17 billion in assets, and more than 118 years of experience serving customers in the food retail business.  Through its family of banners, Sobeys serves millions of Canadians each week while advancing a strong sustainability agenda, including a commitment to eliminate plastic packaging across its operations and private-label products. Its primary own brands include Compliments, Panache, and Best Buy.

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