Coles has received the Most Innovative Supermarket award at this year’s Finder Innovation Awards (FIA) for its store in Moonee Ponds, Victoria.

The FIA recognises brands that drive positive change in the industry and, according to FIA Senior reviews editor and judge Chris Jager, Coles’ sustainability store is an excellent example of innovation in the supermarket space.

“Coles’ flagship sustainability store at Moonee Ponds features several in-store firsts to deliver a better shopping experience in a way that is also good for the environment,” said Jager.

Some of the store innovations include: refill stations that dispense soaps, shampoo and conditioner; produce misting and cold plates that enabled reduction of packaging waste from fresh produce; natural refrigerant solutions that help eliminate greenhouse gas emissions; and, trolley baskets made from 90 per cent recycled milk bottles with 10 per cent from recycled plastic collected through REDcycle.

Thinus Keeve, Coles’ Chief Sustainability, Property, and Export Officer, stated that Coles is dedicated to making Australia a better place for future generations.

“As one of Australia’s largest organisations, we recognise the important role we can play in reducing our environmental impact,” said Keeve.

“By working together with our customers, suppliers, team members and the communities in which we live and work, we can make a real difference.”

Some sustainability initiatives launched at Moonee Ponds have now been rolled out into Coles Local stores, including refill stations at Coles Local Fitzroy and energy-saving fridge doors at Coles Local York Street and Coles Local Ascot.