Food waste app Olio announces Network Rail partnership

Food sharing app Olio has announced a partnership with Network Rail which will see more than 30 rail stations across the UK support its Food Waste Heroes programme.

The partnership, also involving food travel experts SSP, will see 34 stations working to ensure good-to-eat surplus food, which would otherwise go to waste, is made available without charge to groups in need in the community.

It follows a 12-week trial at London Waterloo station from April to June which saw contributions from retailers including Starbucks and Whistlestop stores, providing 3,112 meals from 4,300 items that benefited 127 households.

The initiative is now being rolled out across other retail brands.

Under the programme, collections of edible prepackaged items that don’t sell in time are set aside by retail staff, picked up by volunteers, listed online and shared with local communities through the Olio app.

“We’re thrilled to announce this partnership with Network Rail and SSP through our Food Waste Heroes programme at Waterloo Station and 33 other UK locations,” said Saasha Celestial-One, Olio co-founder and COO.

“It’s another powerful step towards a waste-free retail sector, and we know that our four million UK users are loving seeing such good-quality food being shared by volunteers on the app.”

Hamish Kiernan, commercial director, property at Network Rail, said: “Rail stations across Great Britain are an integral part of the communities they serve. That is why it was so important for us to be involved in the Food Waste Heroes initiative.

“It ensures that leftover food from retailers at our stations is not wasted but instead reaches the local community.

“It is a great example of how businesses can collaborate to make a positive impact. By working closely with SSP, Olio and now other retail partners, Network Rail will be able to not only cut food waste but also drive greater sustainability and deliver more for local people.”