Natural Grocers marked a major milestone this summer, celebrating its 70th anniversary with its biggest sale of the year, special giveaways, and an anniversary sweepstakes August 14th to 16th at all stores.
“As we mark our 70th anniversary, we’re proud to carry forward the vision my grandparents, Margaret and Philip Isely, began in 1955,” said Raquel Isely, VP of Marketing. “My grandmother’s compassion and conviction continue to shape everything we do – from the products we carry to our ‘Five Founding Principles‘ that we uphold. She believed deeply in nourishing the body and the planet, and in empowering people through nutrition education and access to quality food.
“Seventy years in, we’re still guided by the same values that set us apart from day one. We don’t follow trends – we follow purpose. And more often than not, we help set the standard.
“Our commitment to offering only products that meet our rigorous standards is not just policy, it’s personal. It’s our promise to our customers, our communities and to future generations. This celebration is our way of saying thank you – to our crew, our customers and the countless partners who have helped us grow from 1955 to 2025 without compromising our mission.”
The three-day celebration included 60% off over 500 products, free snow cones and popcorn. Sweepstake prizes included a Mustang Mach-E Premium (or $47,000 cash), a Peloton Bike (courtesy of Vega), a Peloton Tread (courtesy of KAL Vitamins), and an Ooni Karu 12-inch Multi-fuel Outdoor Pizza Oven from Wholly Wholesome. Additional giveaways included gift cards, vendor boxes, and even a year of free groceries.
To top it off, the grocer launched a limited-edition Pecan Caramel Pie coffee as part of its private label line. The organic, Fair Trade-certified blend will be available for $7.99 per 10-ounce bag from August 14th to 16th. Adding info from this link – https://www.naturalgrocers.com/70-things-about-natural-grocers
Natural Grocers fans can also read a very interesting “70 Things You Didn’t Know About Natural Grocers” article on their website listing surprising facts such as…
Lakewood, Colorado-based Natural Grocers now operates 169 stores across 21 states and continues to carry forward the mission first set in motion by its founders seven decades ago. AFS brings in $85K for Wake-A-Wish Utah
Associated Food Stores once again teamed up with Make-A-Wish Utah to help grant life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses, raising $84,943.73 during this year’s campaign — more than $3,000 above last year’s total. Employees at Macey’s, Lin’s, Dan’s, Dick’s Market, and Fresh Market led the effort by collecting donations both in-store and online, with each location supporting a local Wish Kid.
“The Make-A-Wish drive is something our team looks forward to every year,” said Greg Welling, VP of Retail Operations at Associated Retail Operations (ARO). “As a local company, we’re proud to support causes that directly impact the families in our communities. This partnership gives us the opportunity to bring hope to children when they need it most.”
Several stores went above and beyond in their fundraising efforts. Macey’s Olympus emerged as the top-selling store, raising nearly $9,000 and earning the chance to host the Wish Proclamation and check presentation party—a heartwarming event where a local child learns that their wish is being granted. The Olympus team also added fun to the campaign with a friendly challenge: if the store finished on top, staff could throw pies at leadership and the CRM team. True to their word, the pie-throwing event took place on July 1st.
Cashiers at Lin’s Cedar, Price, Macey’s Holladay, and Dick’s Market Centerville also stood out, bringing in the most donations and winning various prizes.
Throughout the campaign, stores welcomed visits from Wish Kids, who joined in activities such as cupcake decorating, making PA announcements, and even sharing family recipes. These experiences brought communities closer to the mission and gave teams a direct connection to the children they were helping.
“Our team has always loved what Make-A-Wish represents, and I appreciate how fun they make the campaign,” said Candice Fischer, Director of Customer Relations Management at ARO. “Getting to meet the kids and see their excitement is something truly special. It makes the campaign feel personal for our stores and our guests.”
Since first partnering with Make-A-Wish, Associated Food Stores has raised enough to help grant more than 150 wishes for children facing critical illnesses.
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