What’s one perk of staying at a great hotel? The food, of course…particularly when there’s a breakfast buffet! 

Nevertheless, that buffet rarely gets fully devoured…and often good food gets discarded. 

Food waste costs the hospitality sector more than $100 billion every year, and those costs accrue in more ways than one. There’s waste management, an expense that’s increased substantially with inflation, rising gas prices, and penalties from laws aiming to mitigate the environmental impact. 

But there’s also the cost of food itself, and all the labor that went into preparing it. 

According to one research study, hotel kitchens waste between 5% and 15% of their budget by throwing out surplus food. Two-thirds of that waste occurs before the food gets to a customer’s plate, and is avoidable.

Plus, it’s not a good look!

As a result of this inefficiency, some of the biggest names in the industry are pushing for more sustainable practices, and donating their surplus food to the community. In 2019, Hilton announced the expansion of its food-donation initiative to all managed hotels across the United States and Canada. Marriott has also taken steps to audit and better monitor inventory.

Replate works directly with IHG Holiday Inn & Suites at Dubai Festival City to provide a reliable and efficient food recovery solution for the brand, using technology to distribute high quality surplus food to those experiencing food insecurity. In the first week, IHG donated 1,380 meals, saving over 422,000 gallons of water and diverting 3,1000 pounds of carbon dioxide from the air.

Outside New York City, Replate partnered with the Hyatt Regency in Greenwich, CT to recover food from a corporate gala, along with a variety of entrees from the group’s daily breakfast. In one donation alone, the hotel was able to save over 6,600 gallons of water!

“Hyatt properties strive to incorporate sustainable practices into daily operations,” said Sherry Hicks-Buckles, General Manager. “Hyatt Regency Greenwich is excited to partner with Replate to help those in need in our local communities while contributing to Hyatt Hotels 2030 Environmental goals.”

The impact of reducing food waste is substantial, considering its indirect effects on the environment. Even a small donation goes a long way.

If you like to sign up to donate through Replate or recommend a business partner, visit our website.