Marcel Haraszti, Board Member of REWE International AG: “We are determined to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 as a corporation – and this new BILLA market shows that we not only talk but also act. With certified wooden materials, innovative greening elements, and the use of renewable energy, we are setting new standards for sustainability and actively shaping the future of Austrian retail as pioneers. Five certifications confirm the success of our measures and make this market a true role model for the industry.”
Josef Taucher, SPÖ Club Chairman, was present at the opening: “I congratulate BILLA on the implementation of this innovation project. Vienna aims to be climate-neutral by 2040, which requires a variety of measures in all areas – in transport, industry, and business. As a city, we are pulling all the levers in the public sector to achieve our climate and sustainability goals. It is all the more encouraging when the private sector supports us on this path and, like BILLA, takes responsibility for a good, future-friendly legacy. The new branch in Pilotengasse is a model example of sustainability and one of many stepping stones needed for a livable future.”
The “greenest” BILLA in Austria – inside and out
To objectively evaluate the set measures, five certifications were realized and implemented at the highest levels: ÖGNI in Platinum, Greenpass in Gold, Klimaaktiv in Gold, PEFC (as the first market in retail), and GreenBuilding. Certified wood from sustainable forestry was used for the wall and roof construction. Some walls and ceilings had to be made of concrete for fire safety reasons and due to high mechanical stress. This concrete was produced in a CO2-reduced quality and poured on-site to ensure maximum material efficiency.
Not only does the construction impress, but the outdoor area has also been redesigned with a clear focus on sustainability. Robert Nagele, BILLA Board Member for Real Estate: “One third of the former parking spaces has been converted into green areas, and instead of four trees, 23 trees are now growing at the site. By reducing the sealed area by half, rainwater can better infiltrate. At the same time, the new flowering areas provide valuable habitats for insects and animals. These measures follow the guidelines of the BILLA greening manual, which sets ecological standards for site design and was developed in collaboration with experts.”
“Sponge city principle” for better water retention
A highlight of the greening is the application of the so-called “sponge city principle,” where a special substrate is used. This stores rainwater and enables the irrigation of plants with minimal effort. An innovative system directs the rainwater specifically to the trees, contributing to environmentally-friendly water management.
Energy supply from photovoltaics and heat pumps
The power supply for the new BILLA market in Vienna's Pilotengasse is largely provided by the photovoltaic systems installed on the roof and carport, with a capacity of 141.5 kWp. If additional power is needed, it is sourced solely from 100% green electricity. An energy storage system balances out power peaks. Heat supply in the sales area is provided through heat recovery from the refrigeration system or a heat pump system via concrete core activation.
Diverse product range with a focus on regionality and sustainability
The sales area has been expanded from 630 m² to 990 m² to offer customers an even greater selection of fresh, seasonal, and regional products. A special focus is on products from Vienna and the surrounding area, as well as a wide selection of plant-based items and meat products of animal welfare quality. Fresh meat at BILLA is offered 100% from Austria at all locations, including here. Those who want advice on the product range can turn to BILLA market manager Maja Antic and her 20 employees, who are happy to help.
Another highlight is the unpackaged station, which offers a wide range of unpackaged organic products in collaboration with LUNZERS Maß-Greißlerei from Vienna's Leopoldstadt. “Customers can fill everything from flakes to nuts to spices in exactly the amount they need. This not only saves packaging material but also minimizes food waste,” says BILLA market manager Maja Antic. Additionally, an Ottakringer draft beer station invites customers to fill their reusable bottles themselves. Potatoes and onions, for example, are available in open bins.
Local commitment of BILLA Pilotengasse and food donations to Caritas Aspern and Food Point
In 2023, BILLA donated goods worth a total of 50 million euros. Every BILLA and BILLA PLUS market in Austria has at least one charitable cooperation partner to whom food is donated. This is also the case here in Pilotengasse – donations are made to Caritas Aspern and Food Point. Additionally, with ObstStadt Wien, BILLA supports the preservation of fruit orchards for the harvest of free fruit for local residents. In the nearby Madam D´Ora Park of the Seestadt, a workshop on the proper care of fruit trees and the planting of a fruit tree took place with children from the Lieselotte Hansen Schmidt Elementary School. This is a contribution not only to healthy nutrition but also to a healthy urban climate. Also in Donaustadt, the BILLA Foundation Blühendes Österreich co-finances a wetland biotope as a partner of the City of Vienna/City Gardens and the Vienna Environmental Ombudsman to enhance the butterfly meadow in Donaupark.
