Progressive Grocer has announced their Impact Award honorees for 2022. The Impact Award, in its second year, recognizes efforts made by retailers, suppliers, and solutions providers in the grocery industry that are making a tangible difference in their communities and for the planet. Natural Grocers by Vitamin Cottage was awarded for their contribution to Food Security and Nutritional Leadership. The Colorado-based grocer continues to partner with local food banks using the bag credit donations their customers earn when they bring in their own bags. They also donate discounted products that are close to their sell-by dates to the food banks themselves. For fiscal year 2021, the company’s donations totaled more than $3 million. The nutritional health coaching services that Natural Grocers provides are making a difference for individuals in their communities as well; 115,000 people attended the nearly 8,000 free in-store nutrition classes and over 30,000 people have taken part in free coaching sessions.
Natural Grocers was also recognized for their efforts in Workforce Development and Employee Support. The company’s initiatives are implemented with the intention to entice, engage, educate, and retain its workforce. Employees are equipped for success through the company’s vast employee education programs. They also provide extensive training and preparation for employees interested in advancing to management positions. Pay for all employees is above federal and state minimum-wage requirements and includes regularly scheduled raises, no pay caps for team members who wish to stay in current role, and birthday pay.
Additionally, Natural Grocers created its Heroes in Aprons Fund in 2021 to provide short-term financial assistance to qualifying Crew or their immediate family members who experience hardships. The program was created in response to the financial difficulties crew members faced during the Covid-19 pandemic. Now through December 31st, Natural Grocers will donate $1 to the Heroes in Aprons fund for every Heroes in Aprons themed reusable bag purchased.
