Since the end of 2024, the REWE delivery service has been relying nationwide on reusable bags (MWT) and thereby saves 40 million paper bags annually. The sustainable alternative was previously tested in model regions and successfully implemented. An independent institute analyzed the lifecycle of the reusable bag and found significant advantages: compared to paper bags, the system reduces water consumption by 62 percent.
Acceptance and regular use by customers is a central factor for the sustainability balance of reusable bags. Therefore, REWE focuses on targeted education to maximize the duration of use of the bags. The rollout of the reusable bags takes place in a total of 16 Food Fulfillment Centers. In addition, the REWE delivery service, in collaboration with external experts, is developing a roadmap with further measures to increase sustainability.
Pick-up Service is Further Expanded
In addition to the switch to reusable bags, REWE is also further advancing the expansion of its pick-up service. Already over 1,800 REWE stores offer the option to pick up online-ordered goods directly on-site, making the service now available in every second REWE store. Since its introduction in 2011, when the first pick-up services were opened in the Rhine-Main area, the offering has continuously grown. In many large German cities, REWE pick-up stations and pick-up points now complement the service range. The REWE delivery service now covers over 90 cities, while some merchants offer independently operated store delivery services for smaller towns and rural regions.
Shopping without Waiting Lines
Another milestone is the introduction of a new Pick&Go test market in Hamburg. In the district of Hoheluft West, REWE relies on modern computer vision technology to make shopping even more convenient. Customers can choose between four payment methods: classic at the checkout, by scanning at the self-checkout terminal, with computer vision support at the terminal, or cashierless via the Pick&Go app. The market covers 1,200 square meters of sales area and offers a range of about 20,000 items. A special highlight is the integration of the service counter into the Pick&Go system, allowing fresh meat, cheese, and sausage products to be purchased without waiting time at the checkout.
After a test phase in cities like Cologne, Berlin, Munich, and Düsseldorf, all customers in Hamburg can now benefit from the technology. Data protection remains a central concern: the images captured by the cameras are used solely for recording the movement of goods. There is no facial recognition or customer recognition.
Another Pick&Go test market in Hamburg will soon open at Altonaer Straße 67. With this, Hamburg is the first city with two locations making this innovative technology accessible to all customers. REWE focuses on collaboration with the company Trigo Vision Ltd., which specializes in computer vision technologies. By digitizing the market environment, Trigo enables a seamless shopping experience, where goods can be directly picked up and paid for—without compromising data protection.
