Since 2011, the Coles and SecondBite Partnership has made a significant impact in the fight against food insecurity across Australia. Together, we have donated the equivalent of over 250 million meals, transforming surplus edible food into vital nourishment for vulnerable Australians.
Coles’ ongoing donations of unsold, edible food play a crucial role in improving access to nutritious meals for those in need. This partnership extends beyond food donations, in FY23 Coles Group Christmas and Winter Appeals raised more than $3.8 million, providing the equivalent of more than 19 million meals. These funds empower SecondBite’s network of over 1,000 community partners nationwide, who distribute food in the form of cooked meals, community pantries, and food hampers.
Our collaboration is built on shared values, benefiting both Coles and SecondBite. Coles’ contributions have significantly expanded SecondBite’s operations, enabling us to reach more communities and reduce food waste on a national scale. This partnership not only supports our agency partners and the environment but also aligns with Coles’ strategic vision to sustainably enhance the wellbeing of Australians.
“As one of Australia’s largest companies, we believe we have a responsibility to support our community and minimise our impact on the environment. Our partnership with SecondBite ensures we live up to that responsibility…we are not just providing vulnerable Australians with access to free, nutritious meals, but we’re also reducing our waste.
Coles’ partnership with SecondBite is central to our strategy of becoming Australia’s most sustainable supermarket and helping all Australians to lead healthier, happier lives.”
Sally Fielke, General Manager Corporate Affairs, Coles
By diverting unsold food through SecondBite, Coles not only manages waste sustainably but also advances its environmental goals. This structured waste diversion channel supports Coles’ financial and environmental sustainability objectives, reinforcing its commitment to responsible corporate practices.
“Food security and reducing food waste are important social and environmental issues. Thanks to our partnership with SecondBite, we’ve been able to pursue our objective of reducing waste by donating our unsold, edible food and diverting it from landfill.”
Wade Mosse, Operations Sustainability Manager, Coles
The partnership with SecondBite creates meaningful opportunities for Coles team members to engage in purpose-driven work. Through our Community Connect Model, Coles employees connect with food relief agencies, fostering a sense of community and purpose among staff. Engaged in social impact initiatives, Coles team members are motivated and committed to creating positive change in their communities.
The Coles and SecondBite partnership exemplifies how collaboration can amplify social, economic, and environmental impacts. By working together, we continue to innovate and create meaningful value, benefiting our communities and advancing our shared mission to end hunger and food waste in Australia.