CLEVELAND — Joining other retailers across the country, Giant Eagle announced its commitment to eliminate single-use plastic from its operations by 2025, according to a news release from the company.
The Northeast Ohio grocery chain will follow this implementation by a chain-wide plan to incentivize customer use of reusable bags throughout the company’s stores.
Giant Eagle operates 474 stores in Pennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia and Maryland.
Giant Eagle follows Cincinnati-based Kroger Co.’s decision in 2018 to eliminate plastic shopping bags.
Starting in January, Cuyahoga County will put the ban into effect. The county doesn't plan to enforce the ban until July, giving retailers a six-month grace period to adjust.
North Olmsted, located in Cuyahoga County, is already voicing their opinions on the ban, saying that no one called council members for their input before the legislation.
Giant Eagle, which has a store in North Olmsted, wrote in statement:
“Giant Eagle is committed to being a contributing member of the communities we serve, and a leader in sustainability. Today, Giant Eagle recycles more than three million pounds of plastic film annually, but we recognize that more must be done to protect our planet. We applaud the County’s efforts to ensure a better tomorrow with its comprehensive legislation on single-use plastics. We also have a great deal of respect for the authority of local municipalities. Our intent is to abide by the County’s legislation in every region where the local municipality is supportive.”
In a news release, Giant Eagle said it plans to formally announce on Wednesday its commitment to eliminate the bags.
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