Tesco Ireland today announced a groundbreaking partnership with An Post as the new logistics provider for its Stronger Starts Food Programme.
The innovative collaboration will see An Post deliver thousands of Tesco Stronger Starts Food packs to 240 DEIS primary schools nationwide every week.
The free packs, which will go to thousands of schoolchildren, contain a nutritious mix of seasonal fresh fruit and vegetables including apples, onions, potatoes and carrots.
Leveraging An Post’s extensive nationwide distribution and delivery network, this first-of-its-kind partnership will ensure that children across Ireland have access to fresh and nutritious food, supporting their health and wellbeing.
By integrating the delivery of Stronger Starts Food packs with An Post’s existing deliveries, the initiative has helped Tesco achieve a significant reduction in carbon emissions associated with the programme.
‘Helping Children Who Need It Most’
Speaking about the partnership, Tesco Ireland’s communications director Rosemary Garth said, “Tesco’s work with An Post brings fresh, healthy food to DEIS [Delivering Equality of Opportunity in Schools] primary schools across Ireland at a very local community level, helping children who need it most to have a stronger start in life.
“This collaboration not only supports children’s health but also aligns with An Post and Tesco’s shared commitment to sustainability and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).”
The collaboration between An Post and Tesco is a leading example of how partnerships between public agencies and the private sector can help drive progress towards the SDGs.
The Irish government has previously recognised both organisations as SDG Champions, and they continue to serve as SDG ambassadors, showcasing their dedication to achieving social, economic and environmental targets.
‘Important Initiaitve’
Commenting on the initiative, the managing director of mail and parcels at An Post Garrett Bridgeman said, “We are thrilled to partner with Tesco on this important initiative.
“By utilising our existing delivery routes, fleets and expertise, we will minimise the environmental impact of the Stronger Starts programme, demonstrating our commitment to sustainability and innovation.”
Launched as a pilot in 2021, the Tesco Stronger Starts Food programme initially provided free fresh food packs to children in just 40 DEIS schools.
The programme has since rapidly expanded, aiming to support children who need it most with access to fresh fruit and vegetables, promoting healthier diets, better wellbeing and stronger starts in life.
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