POTATO giant Mitolo Family Farms has been acknowledged for its commitment to reducing plastic packaging with a 2021 Coles Supplier Award.
The awards celebrate creative Australian businesses which are leading the way in areas of sustainability, community and health innovation.
Coles recognised 15 suppliers throughout Australia.
It was the Mitolo Family Farms' investment in sustainability which led to a 60-tonne reduction of plastic in packaging that caught Coles' attention fo Fresh Produce Supplier of the Year Award.
Victorian-based Australian Garlic Producers also received high praise winning the Coles Community Champion of the Year Award for its initiatives with the Warrabri Aboriginal community at Ali Curung in the Northern Territory.
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The company is in the process of developing a viable and sustainable garlic industry resulting in future employment opportunities for the community and early season garlic for customers.
Coles chief executive officer Steven Cain the supermarket giant was grateful for its long-held partnerships with farmers, producers and suppliers.
"COVID-19 has certainly proven to be tough on businesses around the country, but it is heartening to see examples of remarkable resilience and passion from suppliers who have continued to achieve amazing feats, despite the challenges," Mr Cain said.
"As part of Coles' Sustainability Strategy, under the Together to Zero and Better Together focus areas, we are always looking for ways to advance us in our ambition to become Australia's most sustainable supermarket.
"Coles' suppliers - and their creative sustainability solutions - are integral to helping us achieve this ambition."
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