In the vibrant city of Copenhagen, known for its culinary prowess, a group of young entrepreneurs launched a revolutionary startup, Too Good To Go (TGTG), to address a critical global issue: food waste. This innovative company has now become a major force in the surplus food market, with a presence in 17 countries and 80 million users, extending its reach from Europe to the United States.
TGTG operates on a simple yet effective principle: connecting retailers with surplus food to consumers via an app. The app offers “surprise bags” filled with an assortment of food items at discounted prices. This model not only reduces food waste but also turns a potential loss into profit for retailers, creating a win-win scenario.
The global context of TGTG’s mission is staggering. According to the UN Food and Agriculture Organization, about a third of all food worldwide is wasted each year, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions and exacerbating food insecurity. TGTG’s approach addresses these issues, providing an accessible solution for consumers and retailers alike.
However, some food policy experts argue that more systemic changes are needed to truly tackle food waste, suggesting that while companies like TGTG make an impact, they are not enough to overhaul the flawed food system.
TGTG’s journey has not been without hurdles. The COVID-19 pandemic and the ensuing economic instability tested the company’s resilience, but it emerged with a stronger commitment to its mission. The company’s potential for growth is particularly high in the U.S., where food waste is an even more significant problem than in the EU.
Q1. Define the term ‘food waste’.
Q2. Explain how a business model like TGTG’s can contribute to reducing food waste.
Q3. Analyse the potential economic and environmental impact of TGTG’s operations.
Q4. Discuss the broader implications of food waste reduction initiatives on an economy.
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