Spar searches for sustainable supermarket formula

Prototype for upcoming stores

Four teams of students, each focused on a particular theme (lighting, warmth and cooling, ventilation and electric transport), are currently working on the project. One of the ideas is to develop a bio reactor based on algae, while another is to build a store front out of pallets. Spar’s goal is to create a supermarket prototype that could serve as the prototype for new stores within the chain.

“We are constantly on the lookout for new technologies to improve our supermarkets”, head of construction, energy and technology at Spar Austria, Gerald Geiger, said. “This collaboration is a success, with many of its projects interesting, sustainable and feasible.”

Spar Austria is already focused on its sustainability, with LED lighting and environmentally conscious architecture that adheres to the rules of passive house construction. Several of its stores are already fully energy-independent as they fulfil their own energy needs through solar power and water installations.