Mandarin Oriental Group invests in AI to reduce food waste

Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group has recently announced a significant stride in environmental stewardship with the goal of having food waste technology installed across all its hotels by the end of 2025. This initiative is a testament to Mandarin Oriental’s commitment to setting a new standard for sustainability in the luxury hospitality sector. In an endorsement of the effectiveness of Winnow’s AI technology, Mandarin Oriental has already observed a 36% reduction in food waste in four pilot hotels: in Hong Kong, London, Miami, and Dubai. Implementing cutting-edge technology across all Mandarin Oriental hotels is core to the group’s broader sustainability strategy, which aims to reduce waste intensity by 50% by 2030. Food waste currently accounts for up to 10% of the world's greenhouse gas emissions and between 5-15% of the food purchased by kitchens is typically wasted. Winnow’s data will enable hotel teams to make informed decisions that positively impact both the environment and their bottom line, with kitchens typically saving between 2-8% on food costs. Initiatives to manage food waste will expand upon existing ones, including workers educational campaigns, overhauling buffet operations, donating excess edible food, and innovative composting programmes to improve soil condition and support efficient absorption of rainwater. With Mandarin Oriental restaurants holding 26 Michelin Stars around the world, the group also looks forward to leveraging the creative platform of their chefs to raise awareness on the importance of tackling food waste. Looking ahead, chefs will be able to use insights from Winnow’s data to inform zero waste menus and recipes. The group is now planning to roll out Winnow’s technology to all 40 hotels by the end of 2025. Torsten van Dullemen, group director of sustainability and area vice president operations, said: “Our commitment to sustainability goes hand in hand with our promise to deliver exceptional guest experiences. The integration of Winnow’s technology across our global portfolio is a bold step towards reducing our ecological impact and reinforcing our position as an industry leader.” Marc Zornes, CEO and co-founder of Winnow, added: “Mandarin Oriental is at the forefront of sustainability in luxury hospitality. Our collaboration is already demonstrating the powerful impact of technology and data in reducing food waste. We’re honoured to support Mandarin Oriental in their ambitious goals, and together, we’re not only setting new industry standards but also making a tangible difference for our planet.”