Countdown Sustainability Report 2019 CONTENTS

Introduction from Natalie Davis...... Page 2 Countdown’s 2020 commitments...... Page 4 Performance Highlights...... Page 6 People...... Page 8 Planet...... Page 24 Prosperity...... Page 40

ABOUT THIS REPORT:

This is Countdown’s fifth New Zealand and in 2017 we launched our new Report has been independently Sustainability Report. Statistics are for Corporate Responsibility Strategy 2020. reviewed; other data and statements the year ended 30 June 2019, unless have been internally reviewed. The purpose of this report is to set otherwise specified. out our achievements and challenges For the full 2019 Woolworths Countdown has had a strong for our New Zealand customers and Sustainability Report please visit sustainability plan in place since 2007, stakeholders. Data included in the www.woolworthsgroup.com.au Woolworths Group Sustainability PERFORMANCE 2 COUNTDOWN SUSTAINABILITY REPORT 2019 1 HIGHLIGHTS 2 PEOPLE 3 PLANET 4 PROSPERITY 3

Welcome to Countdown’s We’re here to make a 2019 Sustainability Report. difference to Kiwis’ lives

We’re serious about sustainability because or others might need a bit of help, but also to In early 2019, the Colmar Brunton Tēnā koutou, tēnā koutou, tēnā We’ve listened, and are strongly committed of the solutions for issues like the climate with almost three million New Zealanders understand how to support their teammates Corporate Reputation Index showed that koutou katoa. to doing what we can, wherever we can, to emergency are shared. We need to move visiting our 180 stores each week, doing the when they need it most. our Countdown business had moved to remove it. quickly and make changes at scale and we It’s my great pleasure to share with you right thing for the environment, our people 11th place out of 50 of New Zealand’s top recognise that to do that, we need to play We’re continuing to make sure we’re Countdown’s work over the last year I’d like to thank our entire team of 18,400 and the communities we operate in, is a huge corporates - up from 43rd in 2015. I’m our part by working with other businesses providing working environments where our towards creating a more sustainable future Kiwis for their commitment to our part of our commitment to making Kiwis’ immensely proud that our customers are to make a collective change. There is so team can bring their whole selves to work for Aotearoa. communities and to our environment. lives a little better every day. seeing our changes for the better, and much at stake and the impacts if we don’t - regardless of their age, gender, religion, With friends and family across Aotearoa, at the forefront of this are our greatest I am particularly proud of what we have take action are undeniable. I am privileged to lead a team of 18,400 ethnicity or sexual orientation - and were it matters to all of us that we work for a ambassadors – our team. done to raise the profile of health and Kiwis who care deeply for each other and immensely proud to gain our Rainbow Tick business that’s committed to playing an We are proud of our achievements to date, safety in our business. Keeping our team, their communities. certification in late 2018. There is much more to do, and we look active role in keeping our country beautiful but we know this work is ongoing and will our visitors and our customers safe is an forward to continuing to partner with our for future generations. require the focus and efforts of many to This year, we have continued to increase our We are delivering programmes and policies absolute priority and we are working hard customers, our suppliers, and community protect this place we call home. focus on safety in the business, including our that make Countdown a great place to work to embed a strong safety culture. This work We remain focused on our response to the organisations across NZ, to contribute first business-wide ‘Stop for Safety’ huddles, and to develop skills and careers. Our Store is underpinned by care and a commitment climate crisis. We’re making our stores more Nāu te rourou, nāku te rourou, to building a more sustainable future for where our teams discussed how they could Manager in Training programme creates to promote the wellbeing of everyone who energy efficient and cutting refrigeration ka ora ai te iwi. Aotearoa. Please enjoy Countdown’s 2019 contribute to building a safer workplace. great leaders within our business, like our works for, or interacts with our business. gas emissions by introducing new CO2 Sustainability Report. We also provided our team with simple tools new Countdown Huntly Store Manager, based systems. We are seeing progress Removing single use plastic bags from our they could use, to reach out to those who Jaqueline Jones. Our graduate programme in making our logistics operations more checkouts and online service, two and a half may be suffering from mental health issues attracts fantastic young talent like Annabelle efficient, and are of course continuing months ahead of schedule and nine months through our ‘I am here’ programme. Cole, and our Workplace Flexibility Policy with our work to divert food waste to Kiri Hannifin ahead of legislation, was an outstanding encourages our team to work around their Natalie Davis landfill through food rescue and diversion General Manager Corporate Affairs, Safety Hundreds of our team have already taken the achievement. Kiwis embraced the change and Sustainability busy lives. Managing Director programmes in 100 per cent of our stores. opportunity to not only recognise when they wholeheartedly, but have been clear that there’s still much more to be done to tackle But there is still so much more to do. the unnecessary proliferation of plastic. We are a small country. Many, if not all, 4 COUNTDOWN SUSTAINABILITY REPORT 2019

PEOPLE: Encouraging PLANET: For a healthy PROSPERITY: Founded diversity Aotearoa New Zealand on trusted relationships Countdown’s Ensuring gender equity Moving to a Working with our

At least 40 per cent of executive and circular economy business partners senior manager positions to be held by women. Towards zero food waste We will engage fairly and equitably with our going to landfill. suppliers, making fact-based decisions and 1 seeking regular feedback directly and through No salary wage gap between male and female independent supplier surveys . employees of equivalent positions on a per- 9 15 hour rate at all levels of the company, with a Improve the recyclability of our own 2020 step-change improvement in closing any gaps brand packaging and contribute to the We will focus on a best practice by the end of FY17. circular economy. compliance system according to the Commitments 2 Global Compliance Programme. We will 10 16 collaborate with peak organisations to improve workers lives. Embracing our diversity In 2017 we launched our Corporate Source environmentally 100 per cent of those responsible for hiring sustainable commodities Responsibility Strategy 2020, which new team members to have completed Giving back to the unconscious bias training. Source key raw materials and commodities communities in which brings focus, resources and energy to to an independent standard by 2020. 3 We will raise awareness of sustainably we operate Continue the focus on driving cultural Countdown’s sustainability agenda. sourced products. diversity, with a commitment that by 2020 We will invest the equivalent of one per We have assigned targets under the the Countdown team will truly reflect the 11 cent of a three year rolling average of total communities we serve. Achieve net zero supply chain deforestation Countdown Earnings Before Interest and pillars of People, Planet and Prosperity. for ‘high impact’ commodities in our own 4 Tax (EBIT) into community partnerships brand products, such as palm oil, timber, These provide a framework for 17 and programmes. pulp and paper, and packaging. our engagement with customers, A focus on growing our team 12 We will publicly report social impact communities, suppliers and our team. We will develop the careers of the to quantify the positive change we are Countdown team with a focus on youth. Action on creating with a focus on health, economic They also set out our commitment to development and emergency relief. minimise the environmental impact of 5 emissions 18 our operations. We will continue to develop employment Reduce Countdown’s carbon emissions to policies appropriate to our New Zealand team 10 per cent below 2015 levels. to provide a supportive work environment. Creating shared value 6 13 with our customers Innovate with natural refrigerants and reduce refrigerant leakage in our stores We will achieve leading customer Creating opportunities for all by 15 per cent of CO2 equivalent below satisfaction scores. 2015 levels. We are committed to maintaining a workplace 14 that safeguards the health and wellbeing of 19 our people, customers and visitors. We will support and inform our customers 7 to help them to make healthier choices. Achieve Rainbow Tick certification in New Zealand, demonstrating our 20 8 commitment to LGBTI inclusion. PERFORMANCE 6 COUNTDOWN SUSTAINABILITY REPORT 2019 1 HIGHLIGHTS 2 PEOPLE 3 PLANET 4 PROSPERITY 7

Sustainability Report Snapshot 2019

+ 18,400 team members + Increased the number + Achieved Rainbow + Bought 21 million kilos of women in senior Tick accreditation of meat and 54 million + Reduced carbon leadership roles to 35% free-range eggs from emissions by 13.9% + Reduced refrigerant Kiwi farmers + Donated $6.9 million of leakage by 28% + 338 million single-use food through Countdown + Removed a further 8.8 plastic carrier bags Food Rescue + Launched New Zealand’s tonnes of sugar and 7.4 gone from Aotearoa’s first Be Accessible tonnes of salt from our waste stream + Provided $2.2 million in accredited supermarket own brand products community donations 1 Refer to appendix for GRI Index. PERFORMANCE 8 COUNTDOWN SUSTAINABILITY REPORT 2019 1 HIGHLIGHTS 2 PEOPLE 3 PLANET 4 PROSPERITY 9

People – encouraging diversity

We employ an incredibly diverse team of more than 18,400 Kiwis across our stores, distribution centres, meat and seafood plants and support offices. Our people are a reflection of Aotearoa and we believe that our diversity - whether that’s age, gender, religion, race or sexual orientation - should be nurtured, grown and celebrated.

Team Rainbow Tick members Accredited 18,400

Women in Team leadership roles under 25 35% 5,979 PERFORMANCE 10 COUNTDOWN SUSTAINABILITY REPORT 2019 1 HIGHLIGHTS 2 PEOPLE 3 PLANET 4 PROSPERITY 11

Store training programme Working towards delivers female leaders “I really enjoy Our most recently appointed Store mentoring other gender equality Manager, Jacqueline Jones, comes from female store a family of strong women and her journey managers and I to her management is largely due to Achieving gender equality across our team and embracing our her grandmother. always encourage women to take diversity is not only the right thing to do, it’s also hugely beneficial “She had to fight hard to get where she to our business and the decisions we make each day. got to. Listening to what she had to give up the next step and because she was a woman made me realise take risks.” how much fairness was not a part of her Tanya Lawrence, Countdown life. It made me want to strive to be seen Cambridge Store Manager and treated as an equal.” Jacqueline is proud to be leading the way for other women with leadership aspirations throughout our business. After completing the Women in Leadership and Store Manager in Training programmes, she is now a few months into a new role managing Countdown Huntly with a team of 91 people. “Growing someone’s Challenging biases in helped us lay foundations confidence and helping As a senior female leader, Jaqueline says she’s keen to show women who may be succession planning for a more diverse way of them to become who holding themselves back out of fear or thinking and leading. By they aspire to be is not uncertainty that taking on a leadership role We have also started to challenging our own biases in only very rewarding, is entirely possible. “I can use the tools that I challenge perceptions and supply chain, 50 per cent of am lucky enough to be given in my role and biases in our talent and but is also what I think use them to guide and develop my team,” the typically male-dominated should be a key part of she says. succession planning processes senior distribution centre and decisions. The Inclusive any leader’s role.” Supporting other women into leadership operational leadership roles Jacqueline Jones, Countdown roles is also a passion of Countdown Leadership and Whole are now held by women. Huntly Store Manager Cambridge Store Manager Tanya Lawrence, Brained Thinking workshops who was awarded Countdown’s Store that were delivered across Manager of the Year title for the second time in 2018. “I really enjoy mentoring Store Operations and Supply other female store managers and I always Chain late last year, have Women in leadership encourage women to take the next step and take risks - assuring them that they don’t Women make up 56 per cent of After canvassing our team, self-confidence COMMITMENT 1 need to know everything to do the next Countdown’s total team and hold roles was raised as a significant hurdle as well role. It’s so rewarding seeing how these At least 40 per cent of right across the spectrum of our company. as perceptions of potential gender bias women have progressed in their careers Our salary wage gap is currently 1.46 per executive and senior We are committed to attracting and for certain roles, feelings of imbalance manager positions to over the years, knowing that I have been cent. This continues to be considerably retaining female talent at all levels whether be held by women. between work and home commitments, involved in helping them to achieve their lower than New Zealand’s national gender COMMITMENT 2 that’s as part of our graduate programme, and concerns around support and dreams,” says Tanya. pay gap, which in June 2019 was 9.3 per cent No salary wage gap working in our stores, or in our senior between male and development opportunities. according to Statistics New Zealand. leadership team. female employees of equivalent positions on In response, we developed a Women Closing the gap We are committed to reducing this gap to Over the last year, the number of women in Leadership programme, which is a per-hour rate at all zero. Not only is this the right thing to do, levels of the company, at General Manager level and above has with a step-change designed to help women in our business At Countdown, we’re committed to but this continuous commitment to pay increased from 50 per cent in FY18 to 63 feel empowered and supported in their improvement in closing providing an inclusive and diverse parity has a positive impact on motivating any gaps by the end per cent. The overall number of senior development and career goals. More workplace, where our team is treated fairly, and retaining our current team, and makes of FY17. roles held by women in our business has than 300 women across our stores and and that extends to being paid fairly for Countdown an attractive place to work for increased from 32.7 per cent in FY18 to 35 supply chain are already benefiting from the work they do. We believe that team people who may be looking to join our team. per cent in FY19. the series of programme workshops, members who have the same skills and role designed to develop leadership capability Over the last year, we’ve also been working shouldn’t be paid any differently because of and confidence, and also provide a great to understand the barriers women are their gender. opportunity to network. facing in our leadership pipeline. PERFORMANCE 12 COUNTDOWN SUSTAINABILITY REPORT 2019 1 HIGHLIGHTS 2 PEOPLE 3 PLANET 4 PROSPERITY 13

Celebrating our diversity We’re one of the largest employers in the country and we’re fortunate that our team reflects the broad range of ethnicities, cultures and backgrounds that make up New Zealand’s population. By working to celebrate our differences and seeing them as one of our greatest assets, we can create better experiences for our team, our customers and our communities every day.

Inclusive workplaces inevitable that young women may face these issues as they start their careers. This year we rolled out our inclusive The New Zealand Young Women’s Festival leadership programme, aimed at Wāhine Kākano was established to give addressing any unconscious biases our women aged 16-22 the tools they need to hiring teams may have - something that navigate their first jobs, tackle issues they may face and empower women to stand up Our store teams are a reflection of Over the last year, we’ve supported events can have a big impact on the diversity of COMMITMENT 3 for their rights. COMMITMENT 4 the communities we serve. We are that celebrate the wide range of cultures our teams. To date, 377 team members 100 per cent of those incredibly proud of our diversity and take and ethnicities that call New Zealand have taken part in the programme. While Continue the focus responsible for hiring As an employer that supports women in on driving cultural new team members opportunities to celebrate the richness it home. Importantly, this has also given we continue to roll out this training to new the workplace, Countdown was proud diversity, with a to have completed brings. Diversity not only helps us make our teams an opportunity to share more leaders, we’ll also be looking at how well it to once again sponsor Wāhine Kākano commitment that by unconscious bias has been embedded across our business 2020 the Countdown training. better business decisions but it also brings about themselves, their traditions and for 2019. Countdown’s General Manager team will truly reflect new ideas and opportunities, and fosters their culture. These events have included and what difference it is making to Corporate Affairs, Safety and Sustainability, the communities we serve. respectful and inclusive workplaces. For Samoan Language Week, Maori Language hiring decisions. Kiri Hannifin, was invited to speak on a our customers, it also makes our stores a Week, the end of Ramadan, Diwali and panel that focused on sustainability and the great place to shop. Chinese New Year. Wāhine Kākano 2019 future of work. Throughout the festival, topics like bias in the workplace, closing With issues such as gender inequality, New Zealand’s gender and ethnic pay gaps, sexual harassment and discrimination still and navigating life after finishing school and prevalent in a number of workplaces, it’s university were also covered. PERFORMANCE 14 COUNTDOWN SUSTAINABILITY REPORT 2019 1 HIGHLIGHTS 2 PEOPLE 3 PLANET 4 PROSPERITY 15

Promoting the use further embed Māori language, culture and “It’s great to be helping to encourage values across our business – starting with more use of te reo in Aotearoa - it’s of te reo Māori in our support office. such a beautiful language that deserves our respect and protection. In my role I our business We have been increasingly weaving te interact with a wide range of stakeholders reo Māori into store and workplace throughout New Zealand and regularly use The Māori language is a taonga that communications. We also introduced Māori greetings and words. Taking part in Countdown is proud to help protect by Te Reo classes for a number of our support these sessions has further ensured that I’m supporting its use across our business. office team. Led by experienced tutor not just using them correctly, but also have Apimaera Thomas, attendees also learn Earlier this year, the Government pledged a deeper understanding of their meaning.” about tikanga Māori. The weekly classes to ensure one million people in Aotearoa says sustainability team member, have been a hit with those taking part, can speak basic te reo Māori by 2040. Charlotte Haycock. While the majority of our stores already allowing team to further hone their skills feature bilingual signage; we wanted to and nail the basics like pronunciation and greetings. Ka rawe!

“Some New Zealanders believe that people speaking other languages are somehow less important. We wanted to change that. Through the bag, we’re helping to make using different languages a common occurrence when meeting new people.” Te Ahi group spokesperson, Jordan Smith

“Te reo Māori is more than just a language, it is Student-designed World The World Shopper bag, designed Countdown helped Te Ahi throughout the understanding a way of life. When learning te reo, and developed by the college’s Young manufacturing and merchandising process you are not only learning syntax and vocab, you are Shopper bag a hit with Enterprise Scheme group Te Ahi (The to bring their reusable bag business idea Countdown customers Fire), not only celebrated New Zealand’s to life and stocked the bag in five central learning tikanga particular to Māori and in doing so, diverse population and cultures but also Auckland stores in late 2018. you learn of the richness of a people. This in turn can Year 12 students from Auckland’s St taught Kiwi shoppers how to say hello Mary’s College took cultural awareness to in 18 different languages. The students impact and further enrich one’s own wellbeing and a stylish new level, with their self-designed, wanted the bags to help New Zealanders life. Kia kaha tātou ki te kōrero Māori.” reusable bag rapidly selling out at a select with new ways to greet people and as such range of Countdown stores. grow our acceptance of other cultures. Apimaera Thomas PERFORMANCE 16 COUNTDOWN SUSTAINABILITY REPORT 2019 1 HIGHLIGHTS 2 PEOPLE 3 PLANET 4 PROSPERITY 17

SEEDS has been running since early 2018 in partnership with ServiceIQ. The number Developing of students participating in the programme “I’ve been impressed by the has increased from 273 in 2018, to 333 in 2019. Students taking part in the amount of support the store our team programme not only gain practical skills and knowledge, but are also able to make management team gives to We know that if we want to continue to attract young, talented informed decisions about future career apprentices. Despite being people to work at Countdown, we need to provide great career opportunities at Countdown. Our stores also benefit, with store managers able to really busy, they are always pathways and the support our team needs to succeed. identify great, local talent. there to offer encouragement and advice - that’s very Butchery apprentice helpful when you’re starting a cut above the rest out in a new career. With Countdown Mailer Street Butchery their support, I’m looking Manager, Tristan Fraser, didn’t start his career in butchery, but is certainly well on forward to completing my the way to establishing one with help apprenticeship this year.” from Countdown. Tristan Fraser, Butchery apprentice Tristan is in his third year of Countdown’s apprenticeship programme, which offers team members the opportunity to earn while they learn through a butchery or bakery apprenticeship in our stores. The apprenticeships are run with support from Competenz and allow participants to gain internationally recognised qualifications. Over the last year, 11 of our team have completed apprenticeships and 99 are currently working towards completing their butchery or bakery apprenticeship. Team under 25 Tristan, who came to work for Countdown after eight years working in and then managing a hunting and fishing store, has easily transitioned into his new role managing a team of four across the Mailer 5,979 Street meat and seafood team. “Butchery is something I’m really passionate about and it’s been really great learning the tools of the trade by working alongside the experts. It’s humbling the amount of time they are willing to spend in Countdown careers teaching me the finer cuts.” COMMITMENT 5 The support for apprentices goes beyond Whether it’s working in our stores around centres, meat and seafood plants and We will develop being taught by the experts. For Tristan, the careers of the school or university studies, completing support office. Countdown team the store management team have also an apprenticeship or being a part of with a focus on An important part of attracting young been great to work with. our SEEDs or graduate programmes, youth. people to work with Countdown is Countdown continues to provide giving them an insight into how diverse hundreds of young Kiwis with their first job careers within our business can be. Our and a great start to their careers. SEEDS (Students Entering Employment We’re proud to employ 5,979 New Developing Skills) programme, which Zealanders who are 25 years old or brings secondary school students into younger across our stores, distribution stores one day a week over 10 weeks, is designed to do just that. PERFORMANCE 18 COUNTDOWN SUSTAINABILITY REPORT 2019 1 HIGHLIGHTS 2 PEOPLE 3 PLANET 4 PROSPERITY 19

Policies for our people childcare pickups, and at times that work fantastic for a number of his team, who “I am proud to work for an for them and their employer. have worked with flexibility for some time but now in a more supported way. organisation that is aware We know that all our team members make For our office-based team, we know having a choice every day to give their time to us. flexibility at work is really important. “In the buying team we’re conscious of the impact it has and Because of that, we have a responsibility to Not only does it help increase their work that many of our people at times either ensure we create a workplace that allows that does its best to utilise satisfaction and make Countdown a great need, or would like, to drop off or pick our team to be who they are and bring place to work, many of our team also say it up their children from school. Others like its resources and makes their whole selves to work. We want each makes them more productive. to be involved in their children’s sporting of our team members to feel supported endeavours which means managing In early 2019 our new group-wide Kiwis lives a little better and valued and also to be proud to work their time flexibly and not necessarily Flexibility Policy was launched, giving our for Countdown. the standard 9-5. To help, we recently every day. Countdown office-based team the freedom and tools changed all of our team meetings to be to work in a way that works for them and really cares about its team within school hours,” says Scott Davidson, Making flexibility work the business. As part of the launch for this General Manager Merchandise. and communities and is policy, our team have been encouraged Changes in technology and lifestyle have to consider a range of flexible working Because of their process and service passionate about doing meant that the ways people work are options and look at what might work best driven nature, the Flexibility Policy will changing significantly. Many people are the right thing.” for them and their team. look a little different in our stores. We’re now able to do their jobs from almost looking at how this might work to make Annabelle Cole, Countdown graduate anywhere, giving them more freedom to General Manager Merchandise, Scott sure workplace flexibility can be an option work around things like traffic, school and Davidson, says the policy has been for teams right across our business.

“This policy allows From fashion to food “After finishing university, I wanted to competitive advantages that can come work for an organisation that would see from developing adaptable supply chains our team to maintain Our graduate programme continues to the strengths I could bring to a role, and - something that is paying dividends in her their contribution to attract hundreds of applicants each year. also be prepared to invest in me and offer graduate role in logistics. new opportunities. As someone who is important business In early 2019, we were excited to welcome “Our business is constantly adapting and also passionate about social responsibility, 13 new graduates who are now working changing to give our customers our best matters, but also I wanted to find an organisation that across a range of departments and every day. Working with our team and aligned with my own beliefs and that provides flexibility projects as well as developing their skills in suppliers to get the right products, in the COMMITMENT 6 constantly strives to do better every areas related to their own career interests. right place, at the right time, with good for personal and We will continue to day. Countdown’s graduate programme prices, can be a challenge. It has been develop employment For a fashion design graduate, the aligned with what I wanted out of an policies appropriate really pārekareka seeing how dedicated family choices.” supermarket industry wouldn’t seem like organisation and a role.” to our New Zealand a likely first choice when starting a career. our team is and how hard they work to get Scott Davidson, GM Merchandise team to provide a supportive work However for 2019 Countdown Graduate Annabelle’s studies led her to look at the most out of every day.” environment. Annabelle Cole, who has a passion for both the potential future of the New supply chain management and logistics, it Zealand apparel industry as well as how was exactly that. it has adapted to globalisation. Doing this work has driven her interest in the PERFORMANCE 20 COUNTDOWN SUSTAINABILITY REPORT 2019 1 HIGHLIGHTS 2 PEOPLE 3 PLANET 4 PROSPERITY 21

Charting a better path for road safety “I Am Here is a really simple While the overall number of crashes method anyone can adopt to involving trucks has decreased significantly over the last decade, according to the support someone who may Ministry of Transport deaths from crashes need help. There are no wrong involving trucks still makes up around 20 per cent of the total road toll. questions. It’s empowering Our supply chain team works closely with and safe and focused on freight suppliers to ensure we’re keeping truck drivers, customers and other road fostering a culture of care.” users safe as they travel the country Kiri Hannifin, GM Corporate Affairs, delivering goods into our stores and Safety and Sustainability distribution centres. Underpinning this is our Transport Safety Charter, which plots Countdown’s safety ambitions over the next 10 years and is already seeing some positive changes in the freight industry. The Charter gives our freight and supply chain partners a clear overview of our expectations when it comes to safety, and it allows us to work alongside them to make fleet changes that will help keep our team, their team and other Kiwis safe on our roads. Our secondary freight contracts specify mandatory safety features including eyelid monitoring fatigue alerting system, 24/7 speed monitoring, park-brake alarms, fleet age, electronic braking systems and under-run protection. Over the next year, we’ll be working with our primary Keeping our team and Stop for Safety freight carriers to make similar changes, as well as improving safety at our store customers safe In March 2019, we held our first COMMITMENT 7 delivery points. company-wide ‘Stop for Safety’ team We are committed We have an absolute responsibility to our huddle. Across Aotearoa, all 18,400 of to maintaining a team and our customers to make sure they workplace that our team, as well as our contractors and I Am Here all get home safely. This is a priority for our Over the last year we have been working “Some of us can navigate these times safeguards the health service providers, stopped work to focus and wellbeing of our business and something we focus on each to continue to remove the stigma on our own, but most of us need some people, customers on what each of us could do to build the New Zealand is experiencing a mental surrounding mental health issues and help and that’s something Kiwis aren’t and visitors. and every day. safest workplace in the country. It’s a health crisis. Last year, the number of create a working environment where our that great at admitting. Sadly, there is still Like most companies, we’re not immune big deal to stop a company of our size people who took their own lives was the team feel comfortable speaking up when completely unjustified stigma attached to to workplace accidents. The hugely varied in its tracks – but it’s an indication of highest since records began, which was they are struggling, and know they will get mental health and that puts us off letting environments our team work in means that how seriously we are taking safety in our the fourth year in a row that number has the support they need. people know we are finding life tough. there is no one-size-fits-all solution when business. The giant team huddle gave increased. Our youth suicide rates are Knowing what to do for the people we care In February 2019, we launched I Am Here it comes to health and safety. For example, everyone an opportunity to reflect on among the highest in the OECD with young about is hard. None of us want to say the - an online training course to help team keeping our team safe in our distribution our current health and safety practices men most at risk. wrong thing or make it worse. I Am Here become confident in recognising when centres is a different challenge to keeping and what we can all do to keep safe. is a really simple method anyone can adopt Given mental illness affects one in five New someone may be in need and providing team and customers safe in our stores. to support someone who may need help.” Zealanders, we know that many of our them with support. Since launching the says Kiri. We know that one of the best ways we can team are experiencing or will experience programme, more than 600 members of prevent accidents at work is by putting mental distress. It’s an issue we are taking our team have taken part in the training. safety at the centre of everything we do seriously as a business. Improving the and by ensuring our team know that if mental health of our nation is something General Manager Corporate Affairs, Safety something can’t be done safely, then it can’t that all of us, including business, can play and Sustainability, Kiri Hannifin, says most be done at all. a role in. people in their lives will experience some form of mental distress. PERFORMANCE 22 COUNTDOWN SUSTAINABILITY REPORT 2019 1 HIGHLIGHTS 2 PEOPLE 3 PLANET 4 PROSPERITY 23

Creating more New Countdown Hāwera Changes across the store include: accessible supermarkets accessible for all • A visual alarm system for emergencies and an EVAC chair for wheelchairs at the With three million customers each week, When Countdown’s Hāwera store emergency exit the needs of our customers go beyond reopened in May 2019, it came with a few • Contrasting colours for doors and reduced what they want to see on our shelves. extra features beyond a more expansive natural light in the entry area to avoid glare It’s also about creating store environments fresh produce department and energy for visually impaired customers that make shopping easy, regardless of efficient fixtures and fittings. their abilities. • Wider aisles have been designed to Thanks to mobility and accessibility provide space for wheelchairs, mobility Over the last year, we have continued being at the heart of the store’s redesign, scooters and prams working with a range of community Countdown Hāwera proudly became stakeholder groups to not only change how New Zealand’s first ‘Be. Accessible’ • Team areas have been designed to cater we develop our new stores, but also to look accredited supermarket, helping all New for a range of mobility needs at how we can create better experiences for Zealanders feel welcome when they shop • Wider mobility car parks which are customers and team who have disabilities with us. clearly marked in blue, dedicated or need a bit of extra help. During the store’s significant mobility scooter parking, and a safe and Countdown first introducedQuiet Hours refurbishment, our team worked easy path to the store entrance from in April 2018 in Countdown Marton, and alongside Be. Accessible to ensure the mobility car parks now eight stores hold regular shopping store was more user-friendly, accessible • Two mobility scooters owned by the times where lights are dimmed, sounds are and inclusive for customers and team store, which can be loaned to customers reduced and there is minimal movement members with disabilities. to use while shopping designated drop- on the shop floor for an hour. This creates off zone for taxis and vans. an optimal shopping environment for customers with autism spectrum disorders, as well as others who can struggle with the traditionally busy supermarket environment. Plans are underway for several more stores throughout the country to start their own Quiet Hours over the next six months. In early 2019, a number of our Dunedin stores became the first to test a new mobility car park monitoring app - Access Aware. Developed by CCS Disability Action, the app is designed to report the misuse of mobility car parks in real time and help keep Love is Love mobility parks free for when people need them most. Countdown was proud to achieve Countdown was also proud to be a The app is being trialed in our four Dunedin Rainbow Tick certification in November key sponsor of RainbowYOUTH’s 30th COMMITMENT 8 stores. We’ll look at customer and team 2018 - a milestone that was celebrated by birthday, a charitable organisation our teams throughout New Zealand. working with queer and gender diverse Achieve Rainbow feedback as well as the number of reports Tick certification youth to provide peer support, drop- received so we can consider rolling out the To mark the occasion, our team was asked in New Zealand, in centres, resources, professional demonstrating our technology across other stores. to share why having the Rainbow Tick development courses and counselling. commitment to matters. We were flooded with responses LGBTI inclusion. “Supermarket shopping is about how the Rainbow Tick was an Now that the Rainbow Tick has been a basic task that everyone important part of creating a safe, non- achieved, the focus is on maintaining the judgmental, inclusive and empowering accreditation. Over the next year, we will should be able to do with workplace for our team - regardless of be looking to encourage greater visibility ease. The Hāwera store is a who they are and who they love. of our LGBTI team across our business as well as continuing to hold focus groups Team were also encouraged to enter a great example of creating a to ensure we’re meeting the needs of our cake decorating competition. We received team and supporting efforts to be even supermarket and a workplace entries from right across the business – more inclusive and diverse. that can cater to everyone from our distribution centres and stores to our support office – with Countdown regardless of ability.” pride clearly on display.

Neville Pulman, Be. Accessible PERFORMANCE 24 COUNTDOWN SUSTAINABILITY REPORT 2019 1 HIGHLIGHTS 2 PEOPLE 3 PLANET 4 PROSPERITY 25

Planet – for a healthy Aotearoa New Zealand

We want to find new and innovative ways to protect our precious environment for generations to come. We’re committed to reducing our emissions and using more sustainable products and materials. We’re also looking at any opportunities to use, waste and pollute less.

Reduction in Reduction in carbon emissions refrigerant leakage 13.9% 28% Certified paper, pulp Food rescue donations and timber

91% $6.9M PERFORMANCE 26 COUNTDOWN SUSTAINABILITY REPORT 2019 1 HIGHLIGHTS 2 PEOPLE 3 PLANET 4 PROSPERITY 27

Zeroing in on “The relationships we have with the local store food waste teams and the wider Globally, one third of all food produced is wasted, and according to Love Food Hate Waste, Countdown business collectively New Zealanders throw out more than 157,000 tonnes of food each year in their have been hugely homes. Not only is this hugely detrimental to the environment, creating greenhouse gases as beneficial to our local food rots in landfills, but it’s also unacceptable given the number of children and families in our communities in need.” country going hungry each day. John Paine, Food Impact Director, Good Neighbour, Tauranga

TOTAL FOOD DONATED THROUGH FOOD RESCUE: $6.97MILLION

FOOD DONATED TO FOOD DONATED TO FOOD DONATED THE SALVATION ARMY: ȥ OTHER FOOD RESCUE AND TO FARMERS: FOODBANK CHARITIES: $2.33 $ 2.87 $1.77 MILLION MILLION MILLION Supporting Good social enterprise providing training and mentoring to help transform lives. It also Neighbour to get cooking means rescued food can now be turned into snacks and sold for catering purposes COMMITMENT 9 Good Neighbour in Tauranga has been by people who are unemployed or are Towards zero food In 2017, we publicly stated our goal to To ensure we’re also financially In addition to Food Rescue, we are working with Countdown to rescue food seeking new skills. waste going to landfill. work towards zero food waste going to contributing to building a sustainable working on a project towards zero food that would have otherwise gone to waste landfill. As a food business, it will always food rescue sector, our Countdown Food waste through better waste management since 2015. Good Neighbour currently “Unfortunately demand for food assistance be a challenge but it’s one that we’re up Rescue Partners Contestable Fund has in our stores and reducing our stock loss. rescues 450 tonnes of surplus food each isn’t slowing down and as a charitable for and working hard on. seen more than $435,000 donated to our While just 0.42 per cent of our total sales year from our stores and distributes it organisation our resources are often charity partners over the last three years. is wasted, work is currently underway stretched thin. Countdown’s support Our food rescue and food waste diversion to 55 community organisations across to help understand what opportunities of Good Neighbour Kitchen is helping programmes continue play a key role in This year, the majority of the $165,000 Tauranga who are working to alleviate food we have to reduce this even further, and us move to a more sustainable social reducing surplus food going to landfill. awarded went towards helping our insecurity and hunger in the region. move towards zero food waste to landfill. enterprise model, where ultimately we 100 per cent of our Countdown stores partners expand their operations, whether This work is being funded in part by the Countdown has also helped support will be able to rescue more food and feed have food diversion in place, where that’s buying a new vehicle to transport Ministry for the Environment’s Waste Good Neighbour through its Food Rescue more people in need. We look forward to surplus food is donated to charity products, building a kitchen or hiring Minimisation Fund. Partners Contestable Fund. The $45,000 seeing how the food rescue sector evolves partners like The Salvation Army for more team. in funding to date has been used to help in the future,” says John Paine, Food people in need, or to farmers as scraps to set up a new commercial kitchen, which Impact Director, Good Neighbour. feed their livestock. opened in June 2019. The Kitchen is a PERFORMANCE 28 COUNTDOWN SUSTAINABILITY REPORT 2019 1 HIGHLIGHTS 2 PEOPLE 3 PLANET 4 PROSPERITY 29

packaging. They are expected to be rolled out in 30 of our stores by the end of 2019. “This is something Plastic removed Countdown needs to do to since early 2018 • We’ve started using recycled PET instead of virgin plastic for some of our meet the ongoing demands own brand products like bottled water and bakery items. This helps reduce of its customers when it the need for virgin plastic and provides comes to packaging. It’s 117T a market for these types of recycled great to have been able to products in New Zealand.

Single-use plastic play a role in Countdown’s carrier bags Trialing traps for litter work to reduce its impact diverted from New Zealands Our store car parks, back-of-store areas on the environment. waste stream and distribution centres see a lot of foot Knowing that my work is and product traffic with customers visiting our stores and deliveries being made to contributing to a better 338M ensure our shelves are always stocked. planet for future generations Because of this, pieces of rubbish and litter often end up outside and blown into nearby is really exciting!” stormwater drains before it can be picked Jefferson Damayo, Packaging Specialist up and properly disposed of. We have recently begun a trial of Stormwater360’s LittaTraps at our Auckland distribution centre and Countdown Takapuna store to help prevent litter ending up in our waterways. The trial, which will be completed in 2019, will allow us to see how effective the traps are and whether they are something we can introduce at more of our stores. Haere rā to the plastic bag

After announcing in late 2017 that we would be phasing out single-use plastic carrier bags at the checkout and online by the end of 2018, our team worked incredibly hard to Ministry funds help and preventing waste. We want to find materials, recyclability of packaging, and The war on plastic ensure we met our deadline. better alternatives to plastic in particular, specific logos and artwork relating to reduce waste but before that, we need to know what recyclability which gives us a really good During the phase out, our store teams Colmar Brunton’s 2018 Better Futures we’re using and why, particularly as we’re understanding of what we need to do.” COMMITMENT 10 were proud advocates and their passion In late 2018, Countdown was delighted to research report showed that the build up of committed to using 100 per cent reusable, Improve the clearly had an impact on our customers be awarded Waste Minimisation funding Councils throughout New Zealand have a plastic in the environment was the number recyclable or compostable packaging in our recyclability of our who started using their reusable bags from the Ministry for the Environment range of different recycling capabilities, Own Brand packaging one concern for New Zealanders – jumping up own brands by 2025 or earlier. well ahead of our full phase-out. On 15 towards a project focused on further which means that packaging that can be and contribute to the nine places from the previous year’s report. circular economy October 2018, more than two months reducing food waste, identifying positive In early 2019, we worked with a packaging recycled in one part of the country cannot As global consumer demand for less plastic ahead of schedule and nine months ahead changes to make to our own brand specialist to audit our entire own brand be recycled somewhere else. Looking at has increased, so too has the pressure on our of legislation, we were proud to announce packaging, and investigating circular packaging. This looked at the recyclability which packaging options have the best business here in Aotearoa to make changes for Countdown was the first supermarket economy opportunities within our of the packaging currently being used and ability to be processed within our current the better. Over the last year, we’ve delivered brand in New Zealand to be single-use operations. The project is expected to identified areas where environmentally- domestic infrastructure was also an beneficial changes could be made in the important focus of the audit. some positive results: plastic carrier bag free at our checkouts be completed by early 2020. short, medium and long-term. • Continued to remove plastic and packaging and online shopping service. This has Jefferson says that while 2025 seems far from our produce section, with more than meant 338 million single use plastic bags Taking a hard look at our “These types of audits help establish a away for a lot of people, it’s actually an 117 tonnes of plastic and over 70 tonnes of have been prevented from entering the baseline that can then be used to identify incredibly short timeframe if Countdown cardboard taken out since early 2018. waste stream this year. own brand packaging and pinpoint important and underlying is going to meet its commitment to make issues to tackle,” says Packaging Specialist packaging changes. Almost 90 per cent of our customers are • Rolled out misting units for fresh produce For many products, packaging can serve Jefferson Damayo. “It’s captured data already bringing their own bags when in five of our stores, allowing it to be a vital purpose like keeping food safe such as various packaging types, packaging displayed without unnecessary plastic and they shop with us, so thanks Aotearoa for getting behind us! PERFORMANCE 30 COUNTDOWN SUSTAINABILITY REPORT 2019 1 HIGHLIGHTS 2 PEOPLE 3 PLANET 4 PROSPERITY 31

Sourcing Over the last sustainably year, we’ve worked with Kiwi farmers to supply our stores with:

21 82 54 2 million million million millon kilos litres free-range kilos of fresh of fresh eggs of fresh New Zealand milk. New Zealand beef, lamb, pork fish and chicken

Free farmed fresh pork “We know that animal welfare and that what they grow or produce, we will knowing animals are well cared for is really buy. A great example of this is our recent Our customers regularly tell us that they important for Kiwi customers, and we’ve work with Canterbury wheat growers, who want to buy products from local farms that always taken this approach to our farming had been struggling for a number of years meet high animal welfare standards. business. We’re delighted to be able to with low wheat prices. supply more free farmed fresh pork to In July 2018, we announced that all our For a number of years, we have been Kiwi’s, and importantly make it accessible in-store baked bread and rolls are now working with Steve Stern and his team right across the country.” Steve Sterne, being made from Canterbury-grown We know how important it is for Kiwi our organic Braeburn apples grown by at Patoa Farms to offer free farmed Patoa Farms. wheat, giving New Zealand’s local wheat shoppers to buy fresh, locally-grown Bostock in the Hawkes Bay, we’re really fresh pork in a number of our stores. industry a significant economic boost. produce. We work with more than 1,200 proud to work directly with a wide range Patoa Farms, based in Hawarden, North Canterbury wheat The multi-year commitment sures up the COMMITMENT 11 Kiwi farmers to stock our supermarkets, of local growers. Canterbury, has been free farming pork since 1988 and is independently certified whole supply chain, and allows growers Source key raw as well as hundreds of Kiwi growers forthe win For products that come from further to reinvest in their businesses and look at materials and for a wide range of delicious fresh fruit by the SPCA. commodities to an afield, we’re continuing to ensure we’re other opportunities to make the most of independent standard and vegetables. Having great working relationships with sourcing from sustainable sources that In October 2018, we were pleased their land. by 2020. We will to announce that 100 per cent of all our local growers and farmers is not only raise awareness of Over the past year, we have had a strong have been independently verified. 100 great for our customers, but it also gives sustainably sourced focus on local producers, and sharing per cent of all our own brand tea, sugar Countdown’s fresh pork nationwide would products. our business a better understanding of the their stories with our customers. Whether and chocolate is sustainably sourced from be Patoa Farms free farmed pork, making challenges they face. it’s lettuce from Sutherlands Produce vendors that have been independently animal welfare considerations a more in Ramarama, Auckland, our sweetcorn certified by groups including Fairtrade, widely available choice for consumers. Where possible, we’re working to find from the McPhail family in Gisborne, or Rainforest Alliance and UTZ. opportunities to give our suppliers the ability to plan for the long-term, knowing PERFORMANCE 32 COUNTDOWN SUSTAINABILITY REPORT 2019 1 HIGHLIGHTS 2 PEOPLE 3 PLANET 4 PROSPERITY 33

Cage-free eggs prints a Countdown logo and code on each “The quality, safety and integrity of egg at the farm, right after being laid and the products we sell on our shelves is The demand for free-range and barn before packaging, ensuring full traceability paramount to us, and by stamping our eggs shows no sign of slowing down, from farm to plate. eggs we want to provide that next level of increasing by 50 per cent in the last traceability for our customers too. We have “We’re delighted We were the first national retailer to couple of years. More and more always audited our own brand egg suppliers announce we will move to barn-laid or free to be partnering customers want to know how the eggs and over the last two years we have also range eggs on-shelf by the end of 2024 they are cracking into a pan, pot or bowl audited all free range eggs that we stock in the North Island and 2025 in the South with Countdown have been produced and how hens have on our shelves, and independently verified Island. Additionally, we have committed been cared for. traceability from the farm right through to offer more to selling only free range and barn eggs in the supply chain. We are proud to be giving To help our customers make informed our own brand labels by the end of 2022. Kiwis the chance customers that extra assurance that our decisions about the eggs they buy, we This commitment is supported by our Egg eggs are verified as free range and that introduced traceability stamps on all our Producers Programme, which began in to try our organic their journey is traceable.” Nikhil Sawant, own brand eggs in early 2019. The new 2016 and aims to help farmers reach the Countdown’s Head of Perishables Braeburn apples.” stamp uses food grade ink, which is safe extra 150 million free range and barn eggs to eat and doesn’t affect the egg, and needed each year by our target dates. John Bostock, owner of BOSTOCK New Zealand.

“Our customers want to know where their food comes from, particularly if their purchasing decision is based on animal Apples go organic move to certified organic Braeburn is a Palm Oil welfare.” major play to help make organic produce more affordable and accessible for Kiwis. Nikhil Sawant, Head of Perishables In April 2019, Countdown became The impact of palm oil production on the first national New Zealand “Growing healthy premium produce in the environment is an ongoing concern supermarket retailer to offer only 100 partnership with nature is our priority. for our business as it is for many of our per cent organic Braeburn apples at We want to leave the rivers and land in a customers. We are continuing to work supermarkets nationwide, rather than the good condition for future generations. on ensuring both our food and non-food conventionally-grown variety. We started our grower journey as products use palm oil that is certified by the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil According to the 2018 New Zealand conventional farmers and after having (RSPO), of which we’re a member. Organic Sector Market Report, young children and seeing the liberal use commissioned by Organics Aotearoa of pesticides and artificial substances, like We want our customers to be able to NZ, eight out of ten New Zealanders buy many of our customers, we had concerns make informed choices when they shop organic products at least fortnightly. and this encouraged us to start looking with us, which is why where palm oil is In fact at Countdown, the demand for for healthier alternatives. In 1996 we used as an ingredient in any of our own organics is growing at more than twice converted our farm to organic and now brand products, we clearly label it as ‘palm the speed of the conventional market. we export to more than 20 countries oil’ on the packaging. 100 per cent of the around the world.” John Bostock, owner palm oil in our own brand food products With more than five million apples sold of BOSTOCK New Zealand. is RSPO certified. each year and Braeburn being one of the most popular varieties, the decision to PERFORMANCE 34 COUNTDOWN SUSTAINABILITY REPORT 2019 1 HIGHLIGHTS 2 PEOPLE 3 PLANET 4 PROSPERITY 35

Sustainable suppliers Certified Wherever we can, our buying team is working to find not only sustainable suppliers, but suppliers that help our paper, customers to lead more sustainable lives and reduce their impact on the pulp and environment too. Some success stories we’ve loved in the timber last year include the introduction of recycled cardboard packaging instead of plastic packaging for Turners and Growers’ Beekist tomato products, Sistema’s collection of reusable containers and bottles, the reusable Oi menstrual cup, and the recycled plastic “We applaud being used by Lewis Road Creamery. Countdown’s commitment to Buzzing about environmental food wrap sustainability and In October 2018, we began stocking the changes they LilyBee wraps in 23 of our stores. The are making in store. wraps, made in the Hawkes Bay, are an easy and eco-friendly food wrap option, Working together, eliminating the need for plastic wrap. we can continue to For the growing number of eco- inspire millions of conscious customers, the wraps have New Zealanders 2017 2018 2019 been a welcome, and popular, addition to our shelves. to make plastic free choices when Stacia Jensen, founder and CEO of 63% 77% 91% LilyBee Wrap says “Countdown has shopping.” been an incredible business partner Stacia Jensen, founder & over the past eight months – the team CEO of LilyBee Wrap continue to inspire us with their belief and passion for our brand, and we know that our customers love seeing us in Countdown.” Paper, pulp and timber The number of Countdown own brand products containing certified We work with the Programme for the timber, pulp or paper has been steadily Endorsement of Forest Certification increasing over the last few years and COMMITMENT 12 over the last year, this has increased to 91 and the Forestry Stewardship Council Achieve net zero (FSC) systems to ensure that our own per cent in FY19. Our own brand tissues, supply chain brand products and raw materials are toilet paper and kitchen towel products deforestation for ‘high are all certified. impact’ commodities independently certified and sustainable. in our own brand products, such as palm oil, timber, pulp and paper, and packaging. PERFORMANCE 36 COUNTDOWN SUSTAINABILITY REPORT 2019 1 HIGHLIGHTS 2 PEOPLE 3 PLANET 4 PROSPERITY 37

Action on emissions The ongoing and unabated impact of carbon emissions poses a significant threat to our Fuel Refrigerants environment and our economy. We’ve made great progress and are on track to meet our 27% 37% emissions and refrigerant related commitments in 2020, but our work won’t stop there.

Total Emissions (Tonnes of Carbon tCO2e) 180,000 27% 37% 170,000

160,000

150,000

140,000 25% 11% 2020 CO2 Target (138,857) 130,000 FY16 FY17 FY18 FY19 Energy Waste 178,371 165,271 155,337 133,639 25% 11%

As part of the Woolworths Reducing our carbon emissions is critical Using the Sectoral Decarbonisation Method, We are a signatory to the 2017 Climate group, we have targeted not only for the environment, but also for the Group investigated the 2ºC and 1.5ºC Change Statement, as part of our the future of our food-focused business. warming trajectories and modelled what it ongoing commitment to reducing emissions reductions in line The more frequent incidence of extreme would take to achieve these. The analysis greenhouse gas emissions. As part with the levels required to weather events has the potential to found that our emissions need to be 60% of this agreement, we report on our limit global warming to 1.5ºC impact our business and supply chain less than 2015 emissions levels by 2030, progress to the NZ Climate Leaders above pre-industrial levels. This – from both an infrastructure, and a which becomes our new target. Coalition group. Being a member security of supply perspective. of this coalition ensures that we are equates to reducing emissions COMMITMENT 13 We know that tackling climate change working alongside other like-minded COMMITMENT 14 by 60 per cent by 2030 member businesses to collectively Reduce Countdown’s isn’t just a matter of off-setting our Innovate with natural carbon emissions to compared with 2015 levels. emissions or reducing them - we also have reduce New Zealand’s emissions, and refrigerants and reduce 10 per cent below to adapt to the changes we are already encourage non-member businesses to refrigerant leakage in 2015 levels. take action as well. our stores by 15% of The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate experiencing and keep finding better and CO2 equivalent below Change’s 2018 Special Report outlined smarter ways of doing things. 13.9% 2015 levels. that global warming is likely to reach 1.5°C reduction in A target that is in line with a global between 2030 and 2050. The report also emissions since warming limit of 1.5ºC is ambitious, but highlighted that there are significant climate- FY18 necessary if we are going to be able to related risks for natural and human systems address the changes in climate we face. even at 1.5°C. PERFORMANCE 38 COUNTDOWN SUSTAINABILITY REPORT 2019 1 HIGHLIGHTS 2 PEOPLE 3 PLANET 4 PROSPERITY 39

“I take satisfaction in knowing I can reduce the impact of fridge breakdowns on our stores, our customers and ultimately the environment” Greg Kendall, Refrigeration Technician

Energy Fuel Going electric Energy is our second largest carbon In FY19, fuel accounted for 27 per cent Last year, we were awarded $300,000 of emitter, producing 25 per cent of our of our emissions. We move food and funding by EECA to convert five of our emissions in FY19. In an effort to reduce other products around New Zealand as chilled online delivery vehicles to electric, this, we are continuing to roll out LED efficiently as possible. helping to cut down noise around the lighting in all new stores and as we online delivery depots and eliminate Over the last year, we’ve been working to refurbish our existing network. approximately 135,000kg of CO2 emissions improve transport efficiency by increasing annually. We will be launching these We know that as we reduce emissions the size of pallets per load, introducing vehicles very soon, as they’re nearly ready through better refrigerants and introduce slightly larger truck trailers that can to hit the road! more transcritical systems, electricity is transport more pallets, and optimising the likely to then be our greatest contributor routes our trucks are travelling. In November 2018, we installed our to carbon emissions. Technology will play first electric vehicle charging stations in This means fewer trucks, travelling fewer a significant role in helping all businesses, partnership with WEL Networks. The kilometers, generating fewer emissions. placing it in older systems that haven’t carries out preventative and corrective not just ours, generate further energy charging sites, which are available at five of Refrigerants We have continued to see reductions yet been upgraded so we don’t have to maintenance work throughout the savings and cut emissions. our Waikato stores, are free for customers achieved through our new transport Refrigerants are our most significant purchase new, higher GWP Auckland region to make sure our fridges to use and are compatible with any electric contracts that stipulate Euro 5 or 6 engine emissions contributor - making up 37 factor refrigerants. are working as they should be. vehicle. We also have an electric vehicle per cent of our total emissions in FY19. specifications, which produce lower charging station available at our support We have a specific target focused on its We’re also making smart investments Greg plays an important role in reducing emissions, and by reducing the number of office for our electric pool car and the reduction and are currently on track to in better, longer term solutions as we our emissions. By carrying out leak checks, direct to store deliveries. growing number of electric vehicles our work towards carbon neutrality. For our unblocking condensate drains, checking team is driving to work. meet our 2020 commitment. We’re also working to convert all our new stores, we’re installing transcritical circulation fans and talking to store teams distribution centre forklift fleet to electric Our refrigeration systems vary across our refrigeration systems which use natural about stock load levels, Greg is able to Much like electricity, fuel will increasingly and we expect to complete this by the end network of 180 stores, and use a range refrigerants. Currently, we have five catch any problems before they become become one of our top emission concerns of 2020. of refrigerants. Where new construction transcritical systems in place and we expect big issues for not only our business, but the without significant investment and or retrofitting opportunities allow, we’re this figure to double in FY20. We also have environment too. technological advancement. We are working to introduce refrigerants with a 58 hybrid systems in place. looking at growing the number of electric lower Global Warming Potential (GWP) “Being across the Auckland stores on a fleet cars in our business and the number factor or replace the system entirely. regular basis, I have the opportunity to of electric vehicle chargers we have Refrigeration technician prevent major breakdowns before they available for our customers. Currently only 39.5 per cent of our stores occur. Every day is different – I can be in are still using the refrigerant gas 404a, keeps things cool one store, or across four different stores which has an operating charge of 100 tones Keeping our store refrigerators in great in a single day doing repair work.” Greg and a leak rate of 14 tonnes per year. We’re condition is critical to stop refrigerant Kendall, Refrigeration Technician. retrofitting our stores where possible with leaks before they happen. Greg Kendall, R449, which has a much lower GWP factor, Countdown’s refrigeration technician, and using leftover stock by recycling it and has been with the business for a year and PERFORMANCE 40 COUNTDOWN SUSTAINABILITY REPORT 2019 1 HIGHLIGHTS 2 PEOPLE 3 PLANET 4 PROSPERITY 41

Prosperity – building strong and trusting relationships

Relationships are the foundation of our business. We know that by giving back to the communities we operate in, and supporting and engaging with our suppliers, we are not only doing right by our peoples and the environment, we’re also honouring the trust our customers have in us to make their lives a little easier every day.

Community donations Tonnes of sugar removed from own brand products

$2.2M 82T

Own brand products with Tonnes of salt removed health star rating from own brand products

Team member Sam Heveldt visits the % T Mangere Budgeting Service, which is 99 25 one of the recipients of Countdown’s food rescue programme in Auckland. PERFORMANCE 42 COUNTDOWN SUSTAINABILITY REPORT 2019 1 HIGHLIGHTS 2 PEOPLE 3 PLANET 4 PROSPERITY 43

Since launch, we have been working with our suppliers to help them understand the Working with our new policy and standards, and start the first part of the process by carrying out baseline auditing. This allows us to see how Business partners the auditing process is working and ensure it is fit for purpose for both our business Our suppliers are a critical part of our Already the survey has been instrumental to Responsible sourcing and our suppliers. business and we need to have positive, fair further improve our supplier relationships. Our team also regularly meet with the and open relationships with them, whether Measures where we have seen significant According to the Global Slavery Index, an Ministry for Business, Innovation and that’s a large multi-national supplier or a local improvements include ‘Customer led joint estimated 3000 people in New Zealand Employment, which is carrying out work start-up. We nurture these relationships planning’ and ‘Countdown as a fair, equitable work in conditioins of modern slavery. The to encourage more businesses to adopt throughout the year through regular updates, and trustworthy business partner’. The issue is particularly prevalent among our responsible sourcing policies and practices. events and joint business planning. results have also helped encourage our migrant worker population. category managers to collaborate more We also want honest feedback so we with their supplier partners. Modern slavery covers situations where Focus on horticulture can continually improve. In addition to workers might have their passports the annual Advantage Survey which is a The verbatim feedback has also given withheld so they can’t travel home, are A big part of our business is the fresh, comprehensive review of all supermarket our team a good indication of where we being forced to work to pay-off a “debt” seasonal produce we deliver into our retailers across the country, we have need to do further work and over the related to their employment, or are simply stores for customers each day. It’s recently added our own pulse surveys which coming months, improving our in-store not being paid for the hours they have important to us that each person that has we carry out three times a year. execution consistency and communication worked. had a hand in the growth, harvest, packing from category managers will be a focus and transportation of those products has These Voice of the Supplier surveys, for our business. Kiwi consumers, like others around the been treated and paid fairly. introduced in October 2018, give our world, are increasingly interested in suppliers the opportunity to tell us what’s knowing where their food and groceries New Zealand’s horticulture industry working, how they find doing business with “Suppliers play a pivotal role come from and the conditions in which employs a large number of seasonal us and what our areas for improvement are. supporting us to deliver those items were produced. migrant workers. Because of the potential risks involved with this type of labour, Each member of our buying team has Voice our customer first strategy. Ensuring the human rights of workers our team is working closely with produce of Supplier feedback in their individual KPIs Both myself and my team are throughout our supply chain are upheld suppliers to ensure they are meeting our each year. incredibly committed to ensuring is the primary focus of our Responsible Responsible Sourcing Policy. Where issues our relationships with each of Sourcing Policy and Responsible Sourcing are identified, we will help to address them. them are positive and mutually Standards, which replaced our Ethical Sourcing Policy in July 2018. Currently we require all New Zealand and beneficial. To do this, we need Australian growers supplying produce to take the time to listen and We enlisted the help of global social to our stores, both directly and through learn from our suppliers, because compliance firm Elevate to guide us through wholesalers, to demonstrate compliance the process and conduct a comprehensive once we know what’s important, with one of the three mutual recognition risk assessment. This has allowed us to build programmes we have selected. we can work out how to make a comprehensive picture of the risks that positive changes. We’re taking exist in our supply chain and also the areas To further support this work, Horticulture New Zealand (through New Zealand every piece of feedback we get that we need to understand better, such as COMMITMENT 15 horticulture. Good Agricultural Practice - NZGAP) is from our suppliers really seriously developing a social practice add on that We will engage fairly We also looked at what other leading and equitably with and have set up a team to work meets our standards and incorporates our suppliers, making on an action plan that’s directly companies around the world, and retailers New Zealand legislation. This programme fact-based decisions in our local market, are doing in this space. and seeking regular derived from the results of our is being developed together with the feedback directly and This benchmarking has ensured that our industry and regulators. COMMITMENT 16 through independent surveys. The plan is developed efforts are aligned with industry and make supplier surveys. and owned by the entire team things easier for our suppliers by reducing We will focus on a best practice compliance and shared with suppliers to audit fatigue and double ups, ensuring system according to best practice and delivering consistent the Global Compliance demonstrate how serious we take Programme. We messaging. their feedback. In some cases, will collaborate with peak organisations to we’ve implemented them across improve workers lives. the entire business.”

Scott Davidson, General Manager Merchandise PERFORMANCE 44 COUNTDOWN SUSTAINABILITY REPORT 2019 1 HIGHLIGHTS 2 PEOPLE 3 PLANET 4 PROSPERITY 45

Countdown Communities

With our stores operating in 180 communities throughout Aotearoa, and serving more than three million Kiwis each week, we have our finger firmly on the pulse of what matters to our customers and their families. When the call comes for help, we answer – whether that’s through long-standing partnerships and programmes, or addressing an immediate need on an ad hoc basis. 10.4 million meals donated through food rescue to feed hungry Kiwis

Foodbank Project hits TOP 10 ITEMS PEOPLE Taking action on As a food business, we have a deep DONATE THROUGH THE appreciation for our role in feeding and $1m in donations period poverty supporting our communities. Along with our FOODBANK PROJECT: work to keep food affordable, we also ensure Countdown also partners with The Salvation Our work with The Salvation Army extends that wherever we can, food that we can no Army on The Foodbank Project - New 1. Penne pasta beyond helping feed Kiwis who are struggling longer sell, but can still be eaten, is donated Zealand’s only online foodbank. In May 2019, – we’ve also worked with them to address to Kiwis who need it most through our we were proud to reach a massive milestone 2. Long-life milk an issue faced by many women and girls in Countdown Food Rescue programme. - $1 million of food and grocery donations families that are finding it hard to make ends online since it launched in late 2015, meet - period poverty. Food rescue, and our wider work to support 3. Baked beans providing more than 33,000 food parcels the food rescue network in New Zealand, We became increasingly aware of young girls and other essentials for Kiwis in need. continues to be our main community 4. Long-grain rice and women going to extreme and unsafe investment activity. The Foodbank Project sees donors choose lengths to manage their periods each month, from a range of products that are critically 5. Mixed vegetables and the need for every woman and girl to Helping address hunger Over the last year, we have also supported needed for food parcels, either in a one- have access to sanitary pads and tampons. The Salvation Army through our annual COMMITMENT 17 through our food off or recurring donation. Countdown 6. Canned spaghetti Winter and Christmas food rescue appeals Our research with The Salvation Army, We will invest the provides the food and groceries at cost, rescue programme and their new initiative, The Good Shop, KidsCan and schools showed that stigma equivalent of 1 per then packs and delivers the donated items 7. Margarine cent of a three year which is an ethical alternative to predatory associated with not being able to buy free of charge to the nearest participating rolling average of total Our largest charity partner, The Salvation products and the general taboo around Countdown Earnings mobile lenders. The Good Shop allows 8. Women’s sanitary Army, works with a growing number of Salvation Army foodbank hub. Before Interest and Tax customers in low-socioeconomic areas, products periods meant people were shying away (EBIT) into community families who are struggling to cover their who may not be able to easily access the The Foodbank Project has been from talking about it. partnerships and costs including power, rent and transport. particularly successful in responding to programmes. supermarket, to purchase groceries and 9. Canned tomatoes In response, we made the decision to More often than not, paying these bills is at short-term, urgent needs such as larger size other items without incurring crippling permanently drop the price of our own the expense of keeping their families fed, nappies and women’s sanitary products. debt. It also provides financial advice and 10. Toilet paper brand sanitary products to make them with one in four Kiwi kids experiencing food More than $120,000 worth of sanitary assistance. Countdown is also involved in more affordable for all women. It also poverty. The Salvation Army continues to see products have been donated alone since the second Good Shop in Porirua which started an ongoing public conversation significant demand for food parcels and other the website launched. launched in July 2019. about period poverty and the need to wrap-around support services. address it in New Zealand. PERFORMANCE 46 COUNTDOWN SUSTAINABILITY REPORT 2019 1 HIGHLIGHTS 2 PEOPLE 3 PLANET 4 PROSPERITY 47

Turtle-ly awesome two years after suffering from a range of with a Countdown and FreshChoice ailments - including ingesting plastic. supermarket in Mangere, we also have a large support office and a very busy Countdown is proud to partner with New Our sponsorship helps provide funds to distribution centre here. Zealand’s only turtle rescue and recovery upgrade the turtle rehabilitation area. programme - the Kelly Tarlton’s Turtle This will include new holding tanks for the This support has ranged from donating Rehabilitation Programme. With sick recovering turtles, a food prep area with a food to schools in the area to help feed and injured marine turtles often washing new freezer and workbench, and a new lab families at school events, surprising up on New Zealand’s shore due to the area where the team can carry out water our neighbours on Favona Road with proliferation of plastic in our oceans, the quality testing and animal health checks. Christmas gifts, providing Easter treats programme is a vital part of their recovery Works on the new space are underway and for local rest homes and kindergartens, with the dedicated Kelly Tarlton’s team are expected to be completed by mid-2020. donating bikes to Favona School and nursing them back to health so they can be working with Waterlea Primary School to released into the wild. Acting locally develop a quiet playground area. In early 2019, five of our team members We’re also continuing to support our from across the business were invited to While all our stores are regularly neighbour, the Mangere Budgeting Service release three rehabilitated turtles back into supporting their local communities, our by making donations to their foodbank and the wild near the Poor Knights Islands. The Auckland support office team was also providing food vouchers to help their clients turtles, Connie, Jaxon and Toby, had been keen to get involved with our Favona and through particularly tough financial times. part of the programme for more than Mangere community as well. Together

Waitoki Primary School pupils, Damian Traille and Cameron Reardon with Principal Chris Neison

Growing for Good the area is now covered with native plants The school is a member of the Garden to helping to keep the local bird, fish and Table programme, which teaches children In late 2018, we announced Countdown’s insect communities thriving. how to grow, harvest, cook and enjoy their own food. The eggs will be a welcome Growing for Good Grants, created to help To keep improving the health of the addition to the programme as well as the fund New Zealand primary and intermediate stream, the school used their Growing for community shelf at school where excess schools for environmental and sustainability Good Grant to purchase a stream health produce is given away for school families focused projects. monitoring and assessment kit that will to enjoy. After receiving hundreds of applications allow pupils to learn about how different from the top of the North Island to the types of planting can improve the well- “We’re so thankful to Countdown for their bottom of the South, we were pleased being of the water and encourage more generous donation to Waitoki School, to allocate $25,000 to 30 successful native fish to live there. The school hopes which has meant we’re able to design and applicants. The funding is being used for the project will not only be beneficial for build a chicken coop. I work with children a range of projects including a sensory the local wildlife, but will also encourage with learning difficulties and for these kids, garden, planting vegetable gardens with the children connect to and respect the experience of being involved in this traditional Māori plants for medicinal their environment keeping it safe for project is so valuable. The boys have put a purposes, and installing a rainwater tank future generations. lot of effort into designing the area so it is kid and animal-friendly. We have decided to for an existing vege patch. Waitoki Primary School, near Silverdale, add to our plan and make it a chicken/ lamb are building a chicken coop to keep hens Macandrew Bay School in Dunedin has coop, as we have Agricultural Day lambs at school to lay eggs. Pupils Damian Traill been clearing rubbish and removing weeds that come to school for 6 weeks of the and Cameron Reardon spent a month from the area surrounding a stream by their year while they are bottle fed.” says Linda researching, costing and planning the coop school for more than seven years. Thanks Westbrooke, Waitoki School teacher. to a restoration project that students, staff, ensuring it would be safe for the chickens and the community have been working on, and easy to access and clean for their fellow students. PERFORMANCE 48 COUNTDOWN SUSTAINABILITY REPORT 2019 1 HIGHLIGHTS 2 PEOPLE 3 PLANET 4 PROSPERITY 49

25 early childhood centres in Northland, Kia Kaha Christchurch Auckland and Hawke’s Bay. Children “We’d like to thank all the Countdown are provided with fresh meals through When the Christchurch mosque attacks customers who chose to support KidsCan. Countdown’s online shopping service, took place on Friday 15 March 2019, raincoats, shoes, and head lice treatment. the impact was widely felt by all New We’re facing unprecedented demand, so this The pilot aims to roll out nationwide Zealanders, but most keenly by Cantabrians help is crucial. It will make a huge difference over time. – many of whom knew people who were injured or lost their lives that day. to children living in hardship, fuelling them Researchers from Waikato University are evaluating the impact of KidsCan’s programme With 18 stores in the region, many of with food and providing raincoats, shoes and on a child’s participation, wellbeing, health, which were in lockdown during the health items so they have the same chance education and school readiness, in a study attacks, our team and customers were lasting until September 2020. deeply shaken. In the days that followed to learn as anyone else.” the whole of our business got behind our Julie Chapman, KidsCan CEO All for One Christchurch stores and community. This included team from around New New Zealand has a vast array of charities Zealand volunteering to work in our that all provide important services, but they Christchurch stores to give our local teams are operating in an increasingly competitive the help, rest and care they needed, and market. To provide three of our partner “Throughout the Food for firefighters working directly with our Christchurch charities with much-needed funds and help food rescue partner City Harvest and kids tragic events of When devastating fires ravaged the raise their profile we launched our All for One charity KidsCan to provide food support Tasman countryside in early 2019, our campaign in early 2019. Christchurch, I was to Muslim families and schools impacted. stores leapt into action to support We enlisted the help of our customers to deeply humbled by our crews fighting the blaze. There was a Stores gave food, treats and flowers use their Onecards and donate a share of personal connection to the emergency to customers and mosques, and team – the support $100,000 to either The Salvation Army, as well, with Conner Watts-Smith from supported our teams to attend janazah. KidsCan or Forest & Bird. After the three they showed each our Motueka store and Nicki Brown Our whole business stopped for the week campaign, KidsCan received $37,635, from our Trafalgar Park both directly national two minutes silence a week after other, and the people The Salvation Army $34,845, and Forest & assisting the fire department - Conner these tragic events. Bird $32,550. of Christchurch.” as a volunteer firefighter and Nicki as Countdown, SuperValue and FreshChoice Natalie Davis, Managing Directror ground crew support. supermarkets also donated $150,000 to Countdown Kids As a food business, our team knew The Christchurch Foundation’s Our People, the best way to help was by keeping Our City Fund, set up to help support the Hospital Appeal fire crews fed and hydrated. Our families and Muslim communities impacted Motueka, Trafalgar Park, Nelson and The 2018 Countdown Kids Hospital Appeal now and into the future. Stoke store teams immediately set successfully raised $1.2 million for 21 about making up lunch packs and children’s hospitals and wards throughout continued doing this in the days it took Nourishing our tiniest New Zealand, for much-needed items such to get the blaze under control. Kiwis with KidsCan as new equipment or upgraded facilities. “We wanted to support our community In its 12th year, the appeal continues to be COMMITMENT 18 in the best way we could. We had team Currently, 14 per cent of all Kiwi children well-supported by not only our customers, living in the affected areas and some We will publicly report are living in material hardship and more but our business too. Along with donation social impact to of their families were also working than half are experiencing severe poverty boxes at the checkout, stores also held a quantify the positive to put out the fires. To the Motueka change we are creating and deprivation. In October 2018, host of other charity events including a with a focus on health, team it was but a small gesture of Countdown partnered with KidsCan to pilot group charity walk in Auckland, a head shave economic development a food support programme for 950 of the appreciation, but to hear our Prime and emergency relief. in Morrinsville, a quiz night in Napier and a Minister personally thank Countdown country’s most vulnerable New Zealanders competitive car rally in Christchurch. – babies, toddlers and preschoolers – in in her speech on site for bringing the response to increasing requests for help The funds raised will make a critical lunch packs and handing them out was from early childhood centres as parents difference to the lives of children and their truly an honour – we really were living struggle to provide enough food or warm families, purchasing equipment such as our Countdown purpose,” says Nicole clothing for their children. an EEG monitor for Kidz First Children’s Duncan-Leigh, Long-life Manager, Hospital. Other facilities, like the upgraded Countdown Motueka The programme is the first of its kind to outdoor play and recuperation area for nourish our tiniest Kiwis, and also provide Whakatane Hospital, will be hugely beneficial the warm clothing and shoes they are for young people in the area who are missing out on. The pilot is running in accessing mental health services. PERFORMANCE 50 COUNTDOWN SUSTAINABILITY REPORT 2019 1 HIGHLIGHTS 2 PEOPLE 3 PLANET 4 PROSPERITY 51

Creating shared value Kenneth, Vinay and Anu with our customers

“I would just like to express my deepest was a very stressful time. Anu never left thanks to these people who came to my my side - she was the calm voice I needed aid in my darkest few minutes. My ten and the smile that made my ten-month- month old got locked in my car while old feel loved when he got out of the car. I was waiting for my online pickup and She gave us water and offered to call my their support while I was very anxious husband and then stayed with us till the Each and every day, our team works hard across While we have always had a range of is something I will never forget. Vinay end. Kenneth was totally professional and COMMITMENT 19 our stores, distribution centres and support ways to recognise our team, there wasn’t offices to help make Kiwis lives a little better a way for these stories to be shared far calmly called the locksmith and relayed remained completely calm he relayed we will achieve leading every day. Making our customers feel good and wide across the business. In 2018, we customer satisfaction crucial information to ensure they information from the locksmith to me scores. about shopping in our stores is hugely influenced introduced the WoW Awards to change by the team they interact with. that. The awards give our business the prioritised the case. He then followed and helped him guide his tools eventually ability to recognise great customer We use our Voice of Customer surveys to better up their whereabouts and kept me in resulting in the unlocking of the car. service and share the stories of our team understand what our customers want and the who are truly going above and beyond the loop in a calm manner. He helped Kenneth loaded the groceries into my car types of experiences they are having in our for customers. my load my groceries in to my car and after the ordeal and constantly checked stores. It also lets us know how our team are performing. Over the last year, our business has Since the awards began, our teams even gave me new paper bags for the how I was doing. I would like to, from the achieved an overall score of 81. have been proudly sharing the amazing ones that had gotten soggy in the rain. bottom of my heart, thank these people feedback they are getting from our One of our values is that we always do the right He held the umbrella over me during this for remaining calm and supporting me customers, sometimes even in hand- thing. We’re striving to create a culture where written cards. ordeal and stayed with me till I left. He without judgement during this time. My giving our customers a great experience when they shop with us is second nature for all of us. helped to guide the locksmith to unlock deepest thanks.” the door and was my rock during what Countdown Greenlane customer PERFORMANCE 52 COUNTDOWN SUSTAINABILITY REPORT 2019 1 HIGHLIGHTS 2 PEOPLE 3 PLANET 4 PROSPERITY 53

In the last two years, we’ve A focus on health removed 82 tonnes of sugar and 25 tonnes of salt from our own We Kiwis love our food, but we are also own products to make sure that as we make brand products. increasingly health conscious. We want to changes, the rating reflects these. Of our make good decisions for ourselves and rated products, almost half have a 3.5 or our families. above rating. Countdown is continuing to drive changes Countdown’s nutritionist, Deb Sue, and the are now available in 98 per cent of our in our stores and online offer to provide wider own brand team are also continuing stores. These checkouts feature a range customers with more ways to make healthier to reformulate our products as we work to of our Macro range, bliss balls, nuts and and informed choices. The Health Star meet the Heart Foundation’s HeartSAFE raw bars, and replace the biscuits, chips Rating, which is a quick and easy way to targets for sodium and sugar. Already and meat snacks they used to house. check the nutritional value of products, has this has seen significant reductions in the Healthier alternatives will be available on all been instrumental in guiding our customers amount of salt, saturated fat and sugar checkouts from August 2019. to make better choices. Currently, 99% of in a wider range of our products.We are Our team is also working with the our own brand products have a Health Star continuing to promote healthier snacking University of Auckland on a project to test Rating. We are continuing to review our on confectionery-free checkouts, which commercially sustainable supermarket interventions that promote healthy eating. A trial is currently underway in three Auckland stores, looking at the impact of Own Brand putting healthier breakfast cereals in the Since appointing our Alcohol product health Selling alcohol responsibly Low alcohol options best shelf positions as a way to encourage Responsibility Manager in October 2016, customers to make healthier choices. The Countdown recognises that selling alcohol we have continued to refine our processes We recognise that moderation is one of first results of this work are expected in is a privilege and not a right. We also know and team training to ensure the chances the most important parts of being able to late 2019. 94% that excessive alcohol consumption can of a breach occurring are minimised as reduce harm from alcohol. are NAFNAC (No artificial cause harm. We take our responsibilities much as possible across our 180 stores. colours or flavours) Over the last year, we have seen a growing around the sale of alcohol very seriously and In the past year, we had one breach of Healthier choices, number of customers choosing both low have a range of policies in place to ensure we the Act recorded against us for a failed alcohol beer and low alcohol wine since better for the planet do the right thing. Controlled Purchase Operation, which led to a four-day licence suspension. Following we increased our range of these products. 99% Over the last year, we’ve introduced a We are continuing to work to improve We have significantly grown our zero do not contain Partially this suspension, we undertook a review of Hydrogenated Oils significant number of new product lines that our systems, team training and policies in our point of sale systems in order to help per cent and our low and lighter options have a clear health focus - including in our our effort to become New Zealand’s most mitigate future breaches. range. This has resulted in a sales uplift of own brand offering. These have included responsible retailer of alcohol. 25 per cent in the low alcohol beer and 6 products that will improve gut health such as Countdown’s team training is focused per cent in lower alcohol wine. Our Alcohol Responsibility Manager kombucha, kefir, kimchi and switchel, as well on responsible service of alcohol, the 98% continues to provide regulators and local The low and zero alcohol retail do not contain MSG as products for customers want to adopt regulations around selling alcohol, and communities a single point of contact environment in New Zealand is still different types of diets. training in conflict resolution. As well as to help address any issues or concerns undergoing the initial training, our team relatively young. We are working with our We’ve continued to see a growing number around the sale of alcohol. This also means must also complete an annual refresher suppliers to so we can bring new, lines to 99% of customers making a move towards more operational questions from our stores can course. Last year more than 4,300 of our the market and ensure they are ranged carry the Health planet friendly options, with many choosing be resolved in a timely manner, and that team attend these training and refresher in Countdown supermarkets. We will be Star Rating to adopt flexitarian, vegetarian and vegan our teams are aware of their responsibilities courses. continuing to Introduce more low and diets. In the last year, we’ve also seen growth under the Act. zero alcohol options in 2020. COMMITMENT 20 in the alternative meat range, with demand for vegan and vegetarian chilled foods We will support and increasing by 30%. inform our customers to help them make Our Macro brand now includes 90 plant- healthier choices. based products and nuts and we have more than 100 core health food products Recorded at low prices every day. We’re really proud breaches 8 of our own brand range of tofu, halloumi, across our 1 1 1 veggie burgers and veggie sausages that is helping our customers make healthier and 180 stores: affordable choices. 2015 / 2016 2016 / 2017 2017 / 2018 2018 / 2019 54 COUNTDOWN SUSTAINABILITY REPORT 2019