Pioneering Sustainability: The Innovative Approach of Super U in Mauritius
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If the word "sustainability" is now an ubiquitous trend or all-encompassing mantra within the corporate sphere worldwide, it is imperative to recognize those pioneering entities in Mauritius who embraced this ethos long before it gained mainstream popularity. Super U stands as one of those pioneers.
Established in 1975 as a subsidiary of the renowned French retail group Système U, Super U made its foray into the Mauritian market in 2000 with the inauguration of its flagship store in Grand Bay. Over the ensuing 24 years, the brand has witnessed significant growth, expanding its presence across the island with new developments in Belle Rose, Flacq, Tamarin, Goodlands, and upcoming projects in Riche Terre and Tyack. At the helm of this enterprise is Pascal Tsin, the Group CEO, known for steering the brand towards a more sustainable future.
Super U's evolution extends beyond traditional retail operations, with a strategic shift towards integrated commercial developments that prioritize social and environmental sustainability. This principle is encapsulated in the brand's core mission statement: "Doing retail differently, by valuing people and their communities, and supporting a sustainable value system." In 2013, the Antoine Tsia Lip Ken foundation was established by Super U, focusing on key Sustainable Development Goals such as poverty alleviation, ensuring food security, promoting health and well-being, fostering sustainable urbanization, advancing quality education, advocating for gender equality, and forming strategic partnerships to achieve these objectives.
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Pascal Tsin allocated a significant portion of Super U's budget including profits towards eco-conscious initiatives. The construction of environmentally friendly buildings in Flacq, Tamarin, and Goodlands, installation of a solar farm to generate electricity at the Flacq premises, utilization of top-of-the-line refrigerated cabinets with doors and covers, and incorporation of energy-efficient air-conditioning systems and insulated roof panels are just a few examples of the brand's commitment to sustainability. Rainwater harvesting and storage systems were implemented at the Super U store in Flacq for non-potable purposes, showcasing a dedication to resource conservation.
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Embracing the principles of a circular economy, Pascal Tsin spearheaded the launch of the "Stop aux emballages" initiative at Super U, urging customers to reduce plastic usage and embrace more environmentally friendly practices. As part of this campaign, customers were encouraged to bring their own clean containers. Additionally, reusable bags crafted from recycled materials were made readily available for shopping, along with transparent mesh bags for packing fruits and vegetables.
Moreover, through a strategic alliance with Foodwise, a social enterprise dedicated to combating food waste and insecurity in Mauritius, Super U donated surplus cakes and other food items for distribution to NGOs and vulnerable populations. Since 2020 to March 2024, 37,804 meals were redistributed.
Rethinking waste disposal practices, Super U Mauritius adopted the BiobiN bio-composter waste management system for food and organic waste, transforming it into safe, environmentally friendly compost. Waste sorting bins were installed at all Super U outlets to encourage customers to return plastic and glass bottles, cartons, cans, batteries, and paper waste, which are then collected for recycling by partners like Surfrider Co Ltd, Mission Verte, Plankton, and Polypet Recyclers Ltd. Additionally, cartons are compacted by Super U and recycled by Wecycle, while used cooking oil, both from the company and customers, is recycled by Bioil Ltd.
When questioned about his motivation for these initiatives, Pascal Tsin responded swiftly, expressing his desire for future generations to thrive in a world where basic needs like clean water, healthcare, and education are accessible in a safe environment. The Super U Group remains steadfast in its commitment to social and environmental sustainability, viewing these pillars as fundamental to building a fair, resilient, and prosperous world for all.
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Ground Floor, 7 Exchange Square, Wall Street, Ebene, 72201, Republic of Mauritius
contact@edbmauritius.org | +230 203 3800
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