Asda has signed up the 500th supplier to its Sustain & Save Exchange, which allows suppliers to swap tips on how to drive savings through sustainability.

Asda head of corporate sustainability Julian Walker-Palin told The Grocer that suppliers were increasingly positive about the scheme.

“Suppliers have recognised that the Sustain & Save Exchange is a good thing,” he said. “We are seeing more case studies from suppliers detailing the benefits they have realised as a result of taking part.”

He added that Asda had a “golden rule” not to chase any savings suppliers made as a result of using the service. “The exchange allows us to reduce the environmental intensity of our products in a way which supports our suppliers,” he said. “We fund the tool, our suppliers can use it for nothing and they get to keep any savings they make.”

The news it had hit the 500 mark was revealed at Asda’s third Sustain & Save Exchange summit, attended by suppliers including ABP Food Group, Arla and Watts Farms. Asda launched the scheme 12 months ago in partnership with 2 Degrees, the community for sustainable business.