Muddling through the aisles: food waste policy in Dutch supermarkets
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2025-08-08
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en
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This thesis investigates how the Dutch supermarket chains Albert Heijn, Jumbo and PLUS responded to the European Union’s 2018 Waste Framework Directive (WFD) between 2019 and 2024, and how these actions contributed to reducing food waste. The study uses case studies, in-store observations in Nijmegen and analysis of corporate and policy documents. The research applies Charles Lindblom’s concept of “muddling through” to explain how supermarkets make changes step by step rather than through large reforms. The results show that supermarkets rely on small, testable initiatives such as dynamic pricing, artificial intelligence for demand forecasting, food donation programs and customer awareness campaigns. These actions are often tested on a small scale, adapted based on feedback and then expanded. Albert Heijn achieved significant reductions through AI-based forecasting and targeted discounts. Jumbo made progress with dedicated areas for near-expiry products and campaigns to reduce household waste. PLUS focused on local solutions supported by its cooperative structure. Although these incremental strategies lead to measurable reductions in waste and operational benefits, they may be too slow to meet EU and national targets. The findings provide insights for policymakers and retailers on how to design effective and scalable food waste reduction measures.
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Faculteit der Managementwetenschappen