The Shoprite Group has become the first retailer in South Africa to introduce a fully recyclable 7kg potato bag — solving a packaging problem that’s plagued the industry for years.
Typically made with an outer layer and a moisture-resistant inner lining, potato bags haven’t been recyclable through local systems. Around 18,600 tons of these bags ended up in landfill in 2023 alone. A previous CSIR study estimated that recycling them would require R30 million per plant — an unfeasible cost.
The solution didn’t come from outside consultants but from inside Shoprite. A team of five employees took on the challenge as part of a leadership programme with the Gordon Institute of Business Science (GIBS). They investigated everything from international packaging alternatives to reuse options in construction, but nothing worked for South Africa’s context.
Then, a breakthrough: Billerud, a Swedish paper supplier, stepped in. After one failed attempt, their R&D team developed a semi-wet-strength paper that could meet moisture standards while still being recyclable through local channels.
The new material passed all tests, including recyclability and shelf-life, with no added cost or operational disruption. It will be introduced across Shoprite, Checkers, and Usave stores from May 2025.
“This was a tough problem to crack. The fact that the solution came from our own team makes it even more powerful,” said a Shoprite spokesperson.
The change also supports waste pickers, who could earn up to R22 million more if the industry adopts the recyclable version widely.
With this move, Shoprite’s recyclable, reusable, or compostable packaging share rises from 88.9% to 90%, keeping it on track to meet 2025 sustainability goals.