Four Seasons Madrid cuts food waste by 30% with Winnow’s AI technology

In the heart of Spain’s vibrant capital, Four Seasons Madrid stands as a beacon of luxury and sustainability. With an ever-growing awareness of environmental issues, the hotel recognised the need to integrate sustainable practices into the guest experience. In partnership with Winnow, Four Seasons Madrid achieved a remarkable 30% reduction in food waste in just six months—redefining what it means to offer sustainable luxury.

A Commitment to Environmental Stewardship

Guided by a commitment to environmental stewardship, Four Seasons Madrid partnered with Winnow to combat food waste. "Implementing Winnow has shown a radical change in our waste management. Detailed reporting has allowed us to identify key areas for improvement, achieving significant reductions in our food waste" says Miguel Serrano, Hygiene Specialist at Four Seasons Madrid. Utilising Winnow’s AI-powered technology, the hotel gained critical insights into waste patterns, which empowered the culinary team to make smarter decisions around food preparation and consumption. This initiative not only aligns with the hotel’s sustainability goals but also meets the evolving expectations of today’s guests.

Results in six months :

•  30% reduction in food waste
• €88,000 saved annually
• 45 tons of CO₂e saved annually
• 26,000 meals saved annually

Transforming Kitchen Operations with AI

Winnow’s system, equipped with smart scales and cameras, captures images of discarded food, allowing the AI to analyse and generate detailed reports. Every day, the kitchen team reviews these reports, discussing key insights to identify waste trends and make data-driven decisions. This collaborative process involves chefs, kitchen managers, and the hygiene team, who together brainstorm practical strategies to reduce waste without compromising on quality.

Data insights have led the team to:

• Adjust portion sizes towards the end of buffet service to minimise leftovers.
• Repurpose vegetable trimmings for broths or sautés.
• Fine-tune production volumes for bakery and fruit items during breakfast.
  
  

Building a Culture of Sustainability

Miguel Serrano highlight how the adoption of Winnow’s technology has driven a significant cultural shift within the hotel: “The most rewarding thing has been seeing how the entire team has embraced sustainability, turning our ‘zero waste’ culture into a collective effort.”

Looking ahead, the hotel is committed to furthering its sustainability initiatives. This includes focusing on purchasing local and seasonal ingredients to support regional farmers, reducing transportation emissions, and collaborating with suppliers who prioritise sustainable practices.

A Blueprint for Sustainable Luxury

Four Seasons Madrid’s journey with Winnow illustrates that sustainability and luxury can seamlessly coexist. By integrating AI technology, the hotel is setting a new standard in luxury hospitality, where environmental responsibility enhances the guest experience. This achievement not only delivers economic efficiency but also strengthens the hotel’s commitment to sustainability, proving that luxury and sustainability can thrive together.