For Lidl Cyprus, sustainability is not some parallel initiative – rather, it’s a consistent mode of operating that covers the entire value chain.
This philosophy is underscored in the 2024 Sustainability Report, which the company has committed to publishing and which lays out the overall value created for the market, for workers, suppliers, society at large and the natural environment. The report shows how Lidl tethers its activities to broader sustainability issues on a corporate, sectoral, local and national level – using as its reference point the UN Sustainable Development Goals. At the same time, publication of the report serves to enhance accountability, transparency and real interaction with all stakeholders.
The 2024 Sustainability Report highlights the key fields of action vis a vis the company’s CSR strategy – both within the value chain and beyond. Be it the facilities and the supply chain, society, or the health, wellbeing and daily lives of consumers, the company’s strategy has a clear objective: to create lasting value, substance and a real footprint.
Consistent climate protection, with a clear plan
Protecting the environment lies at the heart of Lidl’s strategy. The company is committed to drastically reducing its emissions from operations in all countries where it has a presence, while at the same time redoubling its efforts, across the supply chain, for a sustainable future. In addition, Lidl systematically invests in energy-efficient premises, photovoltaic systems and sustainable operation certification. In 2024 alone, electrical energy produced from photovoltaics came to 2,502,328 kWh in Cyprus – tangible proof of the transition to a more responsible operating model.
Responsible resource management
Lidl Cyprus invests in a cyclical approach, with an emphasis on the management of raw materials, redesigning packaging and promoting re-use and recycling.
At the same time the company focuses on optimising the management of foods and organic waste. Thanks to a responsible operating model, priority is given to drastically cutting back on waste and boosting efficiency at each stage of the chain.
Respecting biodiversity
Safeguarding biodiversity is a key precondition for resilient ecosystems and a more sustainable future. Lidl incorporates this into its supply chain by turning to more responsible supply practices, sustainable raw materials and better water management. In 2024, in Cyprus, there were 183 biological brand products, 283 Fairtrade products and 591 Rainforest Alliance products. These numbers reflect the clear direction toward more responsible production and consumption choices.
A fair, people-centred business
For Lidl Cyprus, sustainability begins from the inside. This means investing in a healthy work environment, equal opportunity, fair relations with partners and suppliers, but also real support to the local community.
In 2024 the company’s total contribution to employment (direct and indirect jobs) in Cyprus came to 2,000. That corresponds to 0.4 per cent of total jobs in the country, while simultaneously the company partnered up with 95 local food vendors.
Beyond that, Lidl continues to support the youth, the family and local communities through targeted community initiatives. Here, the company focuses on supporting working mothers, by creating the first Breastfeeding Room on its principal premises; the ongoing safeguarding of children’s rights through the strategic partnership with ‘Hope for Children’ (the Beat Bullying and Team Up programmes, as well as the 1466 helpline); and promoting corporate volunteerism via the YOU initiative, giving people the opportunity to give back to the community with special paid leave.
Health and mindful eating
Health advocacy has a special place in Lidl’s strategy. This is implemented via an integrated approach to mindful eating. With an emphasis on healthy, sustainable diet and on transparency, the company advocates for reducing sugar and salt in brand products, while offering more plant-based options and broadening the range of vegan, vegetarian and organic products, as well as local and wholegrain products. The company aims to increase plant-based foods by 20 per cent and wholegrain cereals by 10 per cent by the year 2030.
Meanwhile, Lidl cuts no corners when it comes to food safety – having carried out 2,515 quality and food safety lab tests in Cyprus during 2024. Additionally, the Lidl Food Academy in Cyprus plays an important role. Established in 2015, the academy promotes knowledge on health and balanced diets. There is also the Lidl Wellness Camp, an initiative that underscores how the company can tangibly contribute to health and wellness in partnering up with scientific bodies and with fact-based actions.
Persistent strategy, real impact
What makes Lidl stand out from the rest is that it does not see sustainability as an accumulation of isolated actions, but rather as an all-round philosophy connecting the environment, society, the economy and people’s daily lives. Whether it’s the climate and natural resources, biodiversity, fair business practices or mindful eating, the company is living proof that responsible growth is built step by step, with a clear plan, persistence and with quantifiable actions. After all, at the end of the day, our common home deserves better.
Find the 2024 Sustainability Report here.
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