INTERNATIONAL. The Open Wing Alliance – a coalition of 84 animal protection organisations operating in 72 countries – has hailed Lagardère Travel Retail for achieving 100% cage-free egg sourcing worldwide.
It has also acclaimed the travel retailer for being the first company to publicly report the use of cage-free egg credits as part of its global compliance pathway.
Cage-free egg credits are a market-based financial mechanism allowing food businesses to fund certified cage-free egg production to offset their continued use of conventional caged eggs.
The milestone follows collaboration between the two organisations and positions Lagardère Travel Retail as a first mover in transparent reporting in this area within the travel retail and foodservice channel.
Lagardère Travel Retail operates more than 4,900 stores across over 50 countries in airports, railway stations and other transport hubs. The company has confirmed that it now sources 100% cage-free eggs globally, including in Asia, where supply constraints have historically challenged multinational operators.
In Asia, Lagardère Travel Retail reports a breakdown of 62% physical cage-free eggs and 38% cage-free egg credits.
According to the Open Wing Alliance, this marks the first time a company has publicly disclosed the use of cage-free egg credits as part of a fully delivered global commitment.
Open Wing Alliance Senior Global Corporate Relations Lead Sara Santos said: “This is exactly what global leadership on animal welfare looks like. Lagardère Travel Retail didn’t just meet its commitment, it delivered it across every market, including regions where cage-free supply can be more challenging.
“By combining physical cage-free sourcing with credible cage-free credits, the company has shown that full global fulfilment is both achievable and scalable.”
More than 2,750 companies worldwide have committed to transition to 100% cage-free eggs. However, progress and reporting remain inconsistent across markets, according to Open Wing Alliance.
The organisation said Lagardère Travel Retail’s global fulfilment – supported by public disclosure of credit usage – sets a benchmark for transparency and execution, particularly in complex and developing supply markets.
Cage-free systems are designed to allow hens greater freedom of movement and the ability to express natural behaviours, addressing longstanding welfare concerns associated with conventional caged production. ✈
