Too Good to Go Launches in Queensland: A Sustainable Solution for Food Waste
The popular app Too Good to Go has officially launched in Queensland, expanding its reach as the world’s largest marketplace dedicated to reducing food waste. The service connects consumers with businesses to pick up unsold food items at the end of the day, allowing customers to save money while helping retailers minimise food waste.
Having already gained traction with 600,000 users across Australia, Too Good to Go is set to make an impact in the Sunshine State. Joost Rietveld, a representative from the company, emphasised the initiative’s dual benefit: consumers can purchase a “surprise bag” of leftover food—typically valued at around $30—on average for just $10.
Tessa Boehm, owner of Pressi, a juice bar in Fortitude Valley, recently registered her business on the app and has quickly experienced its popularity. She noted, "The minimal wastage of food is what’s really attractive," praising the quality of the products offered.
Boehm often sells surprise bags valued at approximately $21 for just $7, attracting repeat customers and introducing new faces to her establishment. This system not only aids in recovering costs but also fosters community engagement.
Rietveld highlighted the quality of the food available, stating that it is on par with products that are sold at full price earlier in the day. He encouraged customers to find creative ways to store excess food, suggesting that families could significantly affect their food budgets by freezing products like bread for later use.
Currently, over 100 retailers in Queensland are active on the app, with more businesses signing up weekly. The app is free for download, and users are advised to reserve their surprise bags early to avoid missing out, particularly in a time when food prices are on the rise. Regular customer Crystal French remarked, “If you can catch a bargain anywhere, it’s nice to do that,” highlighting the app’s appeal during tough economic times.
In summary, Too Good to Go not only provides an affordable alternative for consumers but also promotes eco-friendly practices among businesses, making it a win-win for everyone involved.