Tony’s going for green - Environment is key issue in store

Tesco rep Tony Campbell is using a lot of his own energy to persuade others to save it as he looks to turn his passion for the environment into practical in-store improvements.

The 58 year-old works in the petrol station at the Lee Mills store in Plymouth and has taken on the role as energy champion. It has already paid off after Tony and his team of in-store reps scored a notable victory last year after lobbying for improvements in the store’s design.

“Prior to the refit some staff on the checkout were exposed to severe drafts coming in through the main entrance,” he said. “No amount of extra clothing could protect them, staff were literally frozen.

“So we approached management and after a number of meetings they took on board our idea of a glass-fronted lobby to keep the elements at bay. It’s worked a treat. Staff are well protected and its energy efficient as well.”

Tony has been with Tesco for four years after working in the textile industry for 30, first as a weaver then as a HGV driver. “When I first joined Tesco I was a delivery driver which I enjoyed. I also thought it was environmentally sound, taking cars off the road, so I liked the idea. Unfortunately I injured my shoulder and so I moved in store.”

As an energy champion Tony is allowed one hour a week to check on the store’s energy consumption which includes lighting, machinery and freezer levels. “I was brought up to ‘waste not want not’ and I put this into practice and try and persuade my colleagues to do the same,” he said. “I also made sure the company was serious about its desire to go green. We all have a vested interest in saving energy and it’s about changing the mind-set that ensures we all do our bit locally and nationally, so globally it all adds up. Small issues do matter like recycling, switching off lights and re-using plastic bags. It’s not just a business issue it’s an issue for us all.”

Tony is one of seven reps at the Extra store who between them look after around 370 members. “I really enjoy being a rep. It’s part of my nature to help people and this allows me to do that. I’ve been on training courses and to the Annual Delegate Meeting and last year I went to the TUC conference in Brighton. I’ve been in Usdaw for four years now and I’ve been impressed with how it looks after its members and reps.”

Outside of work Tony enjoys spending time with his grandson Luke. “I also have an allotment, but since my shoulder injury it looks more like a wilderness!”

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