The Greening of Auntie Anne’s
While the colors remain blue and white, the basic operating standard is changing. My purpose in writing this is not to mislead anyone into thinking that we are doing everything in the best, ‘green-savvy’ manner, but to show that we are attempting to change the way we think on this subject as well as changing our daily practices. You may have noticed a slightly different hue coming from the recessed lights in the bulkhead and throughout the store. Since September of 2007 we have changed all of our lighting to compact fluorescents. This has reduced electrical consumption on average by 1500 kwh per month or approximately 15%-20%.
As a franchisee, we receive no direct financial benefit as our lease with the mall has predetermined what we pay for electricity. One of the difficulties created by this move is the disposal of them after they have burned out. Fortunately, they last longer than conventional bulbs, however, when it becomes necessary, instructions for proper disposal can be found by calling 1-800 CLEANUP or on the web at earth911.org. We are currently recycling all cardboard, metal and plastic containers, although our usage on these items is quite small.
Auntie Anne’s at The Shops at Ithaca Mall also offers refills of most beverages in your own cup. In the previous month, we filled 458 cups or 15 per day on average. While it may not sound like much, it contributes less to the landfill over time.
Looking toward the future, the next remodel will replace the old neon with a sculpted sign that uses no electricity. While we may not be perfect, (as our pretzel logo might hint), we are trying!