Mette Lykke, the CEO of 'Too Good To Go', sits wrapped in a dark blue winter jacket at the company's headquarters in Germany, which is located in a historic brick building near the East Station in Berlin. The atmosphere is vibrant and startup-like, decorated in a modern style. 'Too Good To Go' was founded in 2015 as a marketplace designed to combat food waste and has become a significant player in this space, generating a sizable profit of 1.8 million euros before interest and taxes (Ebit) on a revenue of 193 million euros in 2024. Despite having a weak margin and a workforce of 1350 employees, which appears relatively large, the app boasts over 120 million users and partnerships with more than 180,000 businesses across 21 countries.

Lykke touches on the criticisms her startup faces, particularly the perception of commercializing a middle-class guilty conscience regarding food waste, yet emphasizes the positive impact the platform has achieved in reducing food waste globally. The app connects customers with local food businesses, allowing consumers to buy unsold food at a reduced price, thereby not only saving money but also contributing to a more sustainable food system. This initiative is proving popular and essential in raising awareness about food waste issues, even as the company navigates financial challenges such as profit margins.

As 'Too Good To Go' continues to grow, Lykke’s commitment to expanding its mission and impact remains evident. The app's development reflects a broader societal challenge: balancing environmental responsibility with business sustainability. Critics may argue about the commercialization aspect of initiatives like 'Too Good To Go', but the underlying goal—to reduce food waste—aligns well with contemporary consumer values that emphasize sustainability and ethical consumption, potentially driving long-term success for the app.