KFC: Embracing sustainability with PEFC-certified packaging

26 September 2024 Packaging

Partnering with PEFC, KFC Austria enhanced the sustainability of their packaging and underscored their commitment to sustainable sourcing and environmental responsibility.

The challenge was to source packaging materials that meet the brand’s high standards for quality and food safety while also reducing environmental impact and promoting responsible forestry practices.

The Solution: PEFC Certification

KFC Austria addressed this challenge by partnering with PEFC to source certified sustainable packaging materials. PEFC certification ensures that the wood-based materials used in packaging come from forests managed with stringent environmental, social, and economic standards.

The impact of PEFC certification on KFC’s packaging includes:

• Environmental Benefits: The use of PEFC-certified packaging helps reduce KFC Austria’s environmental footprint. Sustainable forest management practices promoted by PEFC certification contribute to biodiversity conservation, water protection, and climate change mitigation.

• Consumer Trust and Engagement: The PEFC label on KFC’s packaging reassures consumers about the sustainability of their purchases. This transparency enhances KFC’s brand reputation and aligns with increasing consumer demand for environmentally responsible products.

• Industry Leadership: KFC Austria’s initiative sets a precedent in the fast-food industry, demonstrating that large-scale food service operations can successfully integrate sustainable practices without compromising on quality or customer satisfaction.

Implementation of their PEFC certification

This much ‘US’ is in sUStainability
PEFC Austria's collaboration with KFC

1. Sustainable Sourcing: By integrating PEFC-certified materials, KFC Austria ensures that the wood pulp used in its packaging is sourced from sustainably managed forests. This supports forest conservation efforts and helps mitigate deforestation.

2. Collaboration with Delta Packaging: KFC Austria’s partnership with Delta Packaging, a company known for its commitment to sustainability, further strengthens this initiative. Delta Packaging’s switch to PEFC-certified materials led to them winning the KFC Supplier of the Year Award, showcasing the positive impact of sustainable practices.

3. Public Awareness Campaign: KFC Austria went beyond just using PEFC-certified materials. They actively promoted the benefits of PEFC certification in their stores, educating consumers about the importance of sustainable packaging. The awareness campaign highlighted how purchasing products with the PEFC label supports sustainable forest management, secures future jobs, and protects forest ecosystems. The campaign included promotional videos on in-store order screens, enhancing visibility and consumer engagement.

KFC Austria’s collaboration with PEFC exemplifies how strategic partnerships and certifications can drive sustainability in the fast-food sector. Their commitment to using PEFC-certified packaging not only supports responsible forestry but also enhances their brand’s environmental stewardship.

See how PEFC certification can benefit your business

Other fast-food chains and companies can follow KFC Austria’s example by integrating PEFC-certified materials into their operations. Embrace sustainable sourcing to support forest conservation and meet consumer demand for eco-friendly products.

Discover how PEFC certification can benefit your business or contact us at packaging@pefc.org

Photo credits: KFC, PEFC Austria

Back to list