Smart & Final Opts for Ecova Waste Management Services

Warehouse-format retailer Smart & Final Stores LLC has tapped Ecova, a Spokane, Wash,-based total energy and sustainability management company, to provide waste management services at the chain’s nearly 150 grocery and foodservice stores.

“We were looking for a dynamic approach to waste management,” said Rosie Squieri, VP, store operations support at Los Angeles-based Smart & Final. “Through our work with Ecova on our energy management program, we knew the value the Ecova team could provide, and we expect to see added benefits from consolidating our resource management needs with one provider. We also were attracted to Ecova’s independence from major waste haulers, giving us more flexibility in working with various providers to find the best rates and services. We continue to be impressed with the level of support we see from Ecova, and we anticipate a strong return on our investment.”

Ecova’s waste management services aim to help companies find the most cost-effective waste haulers, streamline bill payments, optimize waste services and create zero-waste programs. Ecova, an independent third party, will work with Smart & Final to negotiate optimal terms for master service agreements with waste haulers, get the lowest rates available and ensure compliance with the negotiated rates.

“Our partnership with Smart & Final is an important example of how our foundation of data from utility expense management streamlines resource management and makes it easy for our clients,” said Ecova CEO Jeff Heggedahl. “We provide a comprehensive suite of services to support Smart & Final, we know their business and their team, and we look forward to helping them achieve their waste management goals.”

Smart & Final Stores LLC operates approximately 250 retail stores under the banners Smart & Final, Smart & Final Extra! and Cash & Carry Smart Foodservice.