A Lesson in Eco-Conscious Shopping
With the rise of social media, it’s common for complaints to go viral before the proper channels are even explored. Recently, a TikTok video made rounds online featuring a shopper at Landers Superstore, a members-only supermarket, who was displeased with the use of reused cartons to pack his groceries. His complaint? The boxes were flimsy and unattractive, despite him paying for a membership.
This situation got me thinking. When someone signs up for a membership at a supermarket like Landers or S&R, they’re likely familiar with the store’s practices, including the use of reused boxes. These stores often emphasize sustainability and eco-friendly practices, which means shoppers are encouraged to bring their own eco-bags or use the provided cartons. So, why the outrage?
The customer in question took a video of his complaint, not in the store but in the parking lot, showing the boxes after everything had been packed. This raised several questions: What was the intention of posting the video online? Was it genuinely to raise an issue, or was it more about going viral and gaining sympathy from viewers?
Address the Problem Before Going Online
If the shopper had concerns about the packaging, there were multiple steps they could have taken before going to social media. First, they could have addressed the issue with the supermarket staff or asked for alternative packaging at the time of checkout. Most supermarkets offer reusable eco-bags at checkout, solving the problem on the spot. Complaining early would have been a more effective way to handle the situation, rather than waiting until after leaving the store to create a viral moment.
In Europe, for example, shoppers commonly bring their own bags to stores or use whatever empty cartons are available. These practices promote sustainability and reduce reliance on single-use plastics. Unlike the Philippines, where grocery assistants often help with packing, European shoppers pack their own groceries and understand the importance of reducing plastic waste.
Sustainability and Supermarkets
The practice of reusing boxes in supermarkets is not only about saving costs—it’s a conscious effort towards reducing plastic waste. In the Philippines, plastic pollution is a major environmental issue, especially during heavy rains and floods. Many supermarkets, like Landers, choose to use recycled cartons to minimize their carbon footprint and help reduce the amount of waste going to landfills. Reused boxes, while perhaps not as visually appealing as new packaging, play a role in the global shift toward sustainability. By using what’s already available, supermarkets can cut down on the need for new materials and packaging.
This practice also aligns with the growing global movement to cut down on plastic use. According to a World Bank report, the Philippines is the third-largest contributor to ocean plastic pollution . Adopting habits like bringing reusable bags or accepting reused boxes is a small yet significant step towards mitigating the country’s waste problem.
The Bigger Picture
The viral video has divided opinions online. Some sympathized with the customer, agreeing that membership fees should come with better packaging. However, others defended Landers, pointing out that eco-conscious practices should be embraced, especially when the store offers reusable eco-bags as an alternative.
One point made by commenters that stood out was this: If you can afford to shop at Landers, a premium membership-based supermarket, investing in a few reusable eco-bags shouldn’t be an issue. These bags are practical, durable, and available at checkout. By making this small investment, shoppers can avoid relying on reused boxes in the future.
The Dangers of Viral Complaints
In the age of social media, it’s tempting to share frustrations publicly to seek immediate validation. However, there’s a risk in airing complaints online before first approaching the concerned establishment. When we post complaints without giving businesses a chance to resolve the issue directly, we risk tarnishing reputations without fully understanding the context or solution.
Before taking to social media, it’s always best to give feedback directly to the company, through customer service or management. This approach fosters constructive dialogue and helps address problems in a way that benefits both parties. Only when all avenues of resolution have been exhausted should social media be considered as a last resort. Otherwise, it can appear more like an attempt to gain views and followers rather than resolving a legitimate concern.
Conclusion
In my opinion, the shopper’s complaint about the reused cartons at Landers isn’t valid. They had several opportunities to address the issue—either by asking for a different option during checkout, buying an eco-bag, or complaining directly to customer service. As consumers, we also have a responsibility to adapt to more sustainable practices, especially given the environmental challenges we face.
As the Philippines gradually adopts more eco-conscious practices, we should support supermarkets’ efforts to reduce plastic waste. Whether it’s by bringing our own reusable bags or accepting reused cartons, small steps can lead to significant change.
#SustainabilityMatters #EcoFriendlyShopping #ReduceReuseRecycle #ThoughtfulConsumerism #Karen #KarenKheaye
Sustainability Is Our Future
Karen Kheaye 
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