CGF Co-Leads Food Retail and Manufacturer Community for Action at Stockholm Food Forum with WBCSD

At the Action Day side event, Health and Sustainability Officer, Kate McGarr, representing CGF’s Healthier Lives Coalition, introduced an Action Brief from the Food Retailers and Manufacturers Community for Action (CfA); one of ten stakeholder groups mobilised within the global food system. She underlined collaboration as the driving force, with companies moving beyond competition to address shared challenges. Members of the CfA shared compelling accounts, or Stories of Progress towards healthy, sustainable, and just diets.

Against the backdrop of nearly 30% of the world’s population unable to afford a healthy diet (FAO), the Communities were tasked with co-developing practical, solutions-focused Action Briefs. With 41 organisations contributing, these outlined common priorities such as tackling food loss and waste, aligning on data and targets, and improving the access, affordability and appeal of healthier diets. 

These Communities also map out new opportunities for cross-sector collaboration. For example, healthcare, food service providers, retailers and manufacturers identified the potential to co-develop recipes aligned with dietary guidelines. This demonstrates how partnerships can create enabling environments for consumers while supporting business growth. 

Co-led in partnership with the World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD), the Communities of Action, an EAT initiative, convenes a diverse range of companies and associations to identify shared challenges and accelerate collaborative solutions for healthier, more sustainable food systems.  

Sharon Bligh, Director of Health & Sustainability, The Consumer Goods Forum, said, “Transforming food systems is a global challenge, but solutions must work locally. Through the Communities of Action, our members turn shared ambition into practical action in their markets.” 

Diane Holdorf, Executive Vice President, Pathways, WBCSD said, “Business has a pivotal role to play in a healthier and sustainable food system.”

For our members, the Communities for Action provide a platform to drive progress on public health and sustainability, while building trust, resilience, and growth across markets.

For more on CGF’s work in health and sustainability, visit tcgfhealthierlives.com.